If you’re going for a tree-like shape, you’ll want to remove lower leaves and branches to reveal a proper trunk. If your plant is off balance, you’ll want to remove gangly or unsightly growth to create an attractive overall shape.
Should I remove lower leaves of fiddle leaf fig?
Fiddle leaf figs either have bare or leaf-covered stems or trunks. If you’re angling for a more tree-like look, your fiddle leaf fig pruning will involve removing the older lower leaves on the trunk, provided you have healthy growth happening on top of your plant.
Will fiddle leaf fig regrow bottom leaves?
Fiddle Leaf Figs do not regrow lost leaves the way the Rubber Plants can. So keeping them healthy is super important because once the leaf is gone, it’s gone.
Where do you cut a fiddle leaf fig?
Make the cut just above the top of your node. Do not cut into the node which would damage it, but just above. Cutting your fiddle leaf fig or any plant in the fig family will produce an oozing, milky, white latex sap. Just don’t eat it or get it in your eyes as it can be irritating and don’t let it hit the carpet.
How often do fiddle leaf figs grow new leaves?
every four to six weeks
Stunted or slowed growth
Healthy Fiddles usually grow new leaves every four to six weeks during spring and summer. Growth tends to be in spurts, and it’s possible to see your plant grow several new leaves in a matter of just a few days or weeks! In the winter, it’s normal not to have any new growth.
Why are the bottom leaves of my fiddle leaf fig turning brown?
The most common cause of brown leaves on a fiddle leaf fig is due to a fungal infection from the roots sitting in too much moisture. Over-watering and poor drainage causes root rot, which spreads from the roots to the leaves of your plant.
How do I make my fiddle leaf figs bigger?
Here are our 7 Steps to Make Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree grow bigger:
- STEP 1: OPTIMIZE THE POT SIZE.
- STEP 2: ENSURE EXCELLENT DRAINAGE.
- STEP 3: FULL, REGULAR WATERING.
- STEP 4: CHECK FOR GOOD SOIL AERATION.
- STEP 5: DO AN ANNUAL SOIL TREATMENT.
- STEP 6: FERTILIZE LESS, MORE OFTEN.
- STEP 7: GIVE IT LIGHT!
How do you encourage new leaves on a fiddle leaf fig?
Notching Your Fiddle Leaf Fig
Notching is a method of encouraging a Fiddle Leaf Fig to branch that doesn’t involve removing any height off the plant. Instead, small cuts or ‘notches’ are made up and down the stem or trunk to encourage new growth to form further down the plant.
How far down can you cut a fiddle leaf fig?
To prune your fiddle-leaf fig to create a tree form with branching lateral growth, wait until spring or summer – when the plant is actively growing – and make a cut at least six inches down from the tip of the tree. You can save this cutting and propagate it! Make sure to cut in an internodal space.
How do I make my fiddle leaf fig trunk thicker?
Wiggling your fiddle leaf fig tree for one and a half to two minutes every one to two weeks will help thicken its trunk considerably. Start with gentle shaking motions and gradually increase the intensity. If your plant is supported with a stake, initially wiggle it with the support in place.
How often should I water fiddle leaf fig?
Watering a Fiddle Leaf Fig
The number one way to kill a fiddle leaf fig is to overwater it or not allow for proper drainage. Water your plant about once a week or every 10 days.
How do I know if my fiddle leaf fig is happy?
You can tell if your plant is healthy if the fiddle leaf fig has new growth and the new leaves are larger than the old ones. The plant will also look good overall and feature vibrant, shiny green leaves.
How long do fiddle leaf figs live?
25-50 years
The ficus lyrata, or fiddle leaf fig, is a tropical tree native to the West African lowland rainforests. It can live for up to 25-50 years (if cared for properly in non-tropical conditions).
When should I repot my fiddle leaf?
Fiddle Leaf Figs usually need to be repotted every two years, and spring is a great time to do this because weather conditions can help your tree recover from potential root shock. Warmer temperatures also mean it’s possible to repot your fiddle outside, which is especially helpful if your tree is large!
Do fiddle leaf figs like sun?
“Fiddle leaf figs need lots of indirect light and some direct sun,” he says. “Afternoon sun from a south- or west-facing window will be too strong.” So remember, just like the nourishing rays that filter down from the jungle’s dense canopy, your fig needs good sun in your home, too.
What happens if you cut the top off a fiddle leaf fig?
Don’t worry too much about your fiddle leaf fig regrowing if you decide to cut the top off. As long as plenty of nodes are left to regrow its leaves and new branches, it’ll bounce back. Happy planting!
Why are the bottom leaves of my fiddle leaf fig turning yellow?
Yellow, discolored leaves are among the most common problems among fiddle leaf figs, and it’s often caused by a well-meaning carer who has simply gone overboard with watering. Fiddles thrive in soil that is kept relatively moist, but it should not be consistently waterlogged or soggy.
Should I notch my fiddle leaf fig?
If you’re lucky, notching fiddle leaf fig tress will encourage the plant to direct energy and resources to the dormant leaf buds in that spot, which will result in the growth of a new branch about 30-50% of the time. (Yup, this isn’t a sure thing—but few things with gardening are!)
How do you keep fiddle leaf fig leaves shiny?
Keep your tree away from vents, space heaters, and drafts, and provide a humidifier or pebble tray to provide some extra humidity, especially if you live in a dry climate. Give your tree a shower every once in a while and make sure to mist your new leaf buds so they can grow out healthy, green, and shiny!
Do fiddle leaf fig leaves get bigger?
New fiddle leaf fig leaves grow from the top of the plant and should grow just as large or larger than the leaves below it.
How long does it take a fiddle leaf fig to grow big?
Ficus Lyrata trees have been known to grow up to about 12-18 inches per year, or about 1 inch per month. However, this growth rate varies significantly based on a couple of factors. Many homeowners that grow their fiddle leaf figs indoors notice much slower growth rates.
Elvira Bowen is a food expert who has dedicated her life to understanding the science of cooking. She has worked in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, and has published several cookbooks that have become bestsellers. Elvira is known for her creative approach to cuisine, and her passion for teaching others about the culinary arts.