The Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) is a popular houseplant known for its large, glossy leaves. These plants are particular about their watering needs, and achieving the correct balance is important for their health and growth.
Fiddle Leaf Fig Watering Fundamentals
The core principle for watering Fiddle Leaf Figs is “deeply but infrequently.” This means thoroughly saturating the soil until water drains from the pot’s bottom, then allowing the top few inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes are important to prevent root rot. Fiddle Leaf Figs originate from rainforests, adapted to periods of heavy rain followed by drier spells. Allowing the soil to dry adequately between waterings mimics their natural habitat and prevents roots from sitting in stagnant water.
Knowing When to Water Your Fiddle Leaf Fig
Check soil moisture to determine when to water your Fiddle Leaf Fig, rather than adhering to a strict schedule. The “finger test” involves inserting your finger 2 to 3 inches into the soil. If it feels dry at this depth, it’s time to water; if damp, delay.
A moisture meter offers a more precise measurement. Insert the probe a few inches into the soil, typically halfway between the plant’s stem and the pot’s edge. A reading of 3 or 4 (on a scale where 10 is wet) often indicates it’s time to water. Visual cues like drooping or dull leaves can signal thirst, but these are often signs of significant dryness. Lifting the pot also helps; a dry pot is noticeably lighter than a moist one.
Key Factors Influencing Watering Needs
Fiddle Leaf Fig water needs are influenced by several environmental and plant-specific factors, making a fixed watering schedule ineffective.
Light Exposure
Plants in brighter light, especially bright indirect sunlight, use water more quickly due to increased transpiration. Those in lower light conditions require less frequent watering.
Pot Size and Material
Smaller pots and porous materials like terracotta dry out faster than larger pots or those made of plastic or glazed ceramic.
Soil Type
Fast-draining potting mixes need watering more often than dense, moisture-retentive soils.
Season and Growth
Plants need less water in cooler, darker winter months when growth slows, and more in warmer, brighter active growing seasons. Larger, more mature Fiddle Leaf Figs also consume more water than smaller, younger plants.
Troubleshooting Watering Problems
Incorrect watering leads to common issues like underwatering and overwatering in Fiddle Leaf Figs.
Underwatering
Symptoms include drooping leaves, crispy brown edges, inward curling leaves, soil pulling away from pot edges, and stunted new growth. To resolve, thoroughly soak the plant until water drains from the bottom, then establish a consistent monitoring routine.
Overwatering
This often causes yellowing leaves, soft stems, and brown spots. A musty smell from the soil or small flies can also indicate excessive moisture and root rot. If suspected, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again, ensure adequate drainage, and consider repotting if root rot is severe.
Essential Watering Tips
Always use room-temperature water for irrigation. Water the plant until liquid drains from the bottom of the pot, then empty any excess from the saucer to prevent root rot. While consistent soil moisture checks are important, be flexible with watering frequency as plant needs change with environmental factors. Periodically, consider bottom watering by placing the potted plant in a tray of water for 10-15 minutes, allowing the soil to absorb moisture from below for thorough saturation.