Root rot in a Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) is a condition caused by prolonged exposure to excess moisture. This oversaturation, often due to overwatering or inadequate soil drainage, creates an anaerobic environment that invites pathogenic fungi like Pythium or Phytophthora to thrive. These pathogens attack the roots, causing decay and preventing the plant from absorbing necessary water and nutrients. Immediate intervention is required, making emergency repotting and targeted root pruning the most effective procedure to save the plant.
Recognizing Root Rot Symptoms
The initial signs of root rot often appear on the foliage as the damaged roots fail to supply the canopy. You may observe brown or black spots developing on the leaves, which frequently start at the edges or near the leaf veins. A sudden drop of lower leaves, even those that appear mostly green, indicates the root system is compromised. The plant’s stem may also feel mushy or soft near the soil line, signaling that the infection has progressed upward from the base.
The definitive confirmation of root rot requires physically inspecting the roots themselves. Carefully slide the plant from its pot and examine the root ball. Healthy Ficus roots are firm, light-colored, and often appear tan or white. Roots affected by rot look dark brown or black, feel soft and slimy, and often detach easily from the root ball. A foul, musty, or sulfur-like odor emanating from the soil or roots signals microbial decay.
Essential Preparations for Repotting
Before beginning the procedure, all necessary materials should be assembled to minimize the plant’s time out of soil. Select a new pot that is the same size as the previous one, or even slightly smaller, to prevent the new soil from retaining excess moisture. The new container must have ample drainage holes to ensure water can escape freely after watering. The new soil mix should be sterile and fast-draining, incorporating chunky amendments like orchid bark, perlite, or horticultural charcoal to maximize aeration.
Gather sharp pruning shears or a clean knife, a container of 70% isopropyl alcohol for sterilization, and a bottle of 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the milky, mildly irritating sap of the fig tree. Having a workspace covered with a tarp or newspaper will aid in efficient cleanup of the infected soil. This preparation ensures the procedure can be executed swiftly, reducing stress on the struggling plant.
The Step-by-Step Root Pruning and Repotting Process
Begin by gently removing the Fiddle Leaf Fig from its current pot, carefully tipping the container and supporting the base of the trunk. Once freed, remove all the old, contaminated soil from the root mass. Shake off the loose soil, then thoroughly wash the entire root ball under a stream of lukewarm water until all the old soil is gone. This rinsing step allows for a clear visual inspection of the extent of the damage.
With the roots clean, use your sterilized shears to cut away every section of root that appears dark, mushy, or slimy. Make clean cuts into the healthy, firm tissue, which should appear white or tan, removing all affected material. Dip your cutting tool into the 70% isopropyl alcohol between each major cut to prevent spreading pathogens to the healthy remaining roots. Continue this process until only the firm, healthy root material remains, which may result in a significantly reduced root mass.
To treat any residual pathogens, prepare a dilute hydrogen peroxide bath by mixing one part 3% hydrogen peroxide with three parts water. Submerge the trimmed root ball into this solution for five to ten minutes; the peroxide will release oxygen and sterilize the roots. After treatment, allow the roots to air-dry briefly before repotting. Place a layer of the fresh, chunky soil mix into the new pot, position the plant so the root collar is just below the rim, and backfill around the root ball. Use the “fill and shimmy” technique, gently tapping the pot against the ground to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets without compacting the mix.
Immediate Aftercare and Recovery
Following repotting, the Fiddle Leaf Fig will be in a state of transplant shock and requires careful attention to recover. Place the newly repotted tree in a location that receives bright, indirect light, but shield it from direct, intense sunlight which could scorch the stressed foliage. Avoid placing the plant near drafts or air conditioning vents, as temperature fluctuations can hinder the healing process.
Water the plant immediately after repotting to help the new soil settle firmly around the pruned roots. This initial watering establishes root-to-soil contact. After this, allow the soil to dry out significantly before watering again, waiting until the top two inches are completely dry. This period could be a week or longer, as the reduced root system and fresh, fast-draining soil change the plant’s moisture needs. Avoid applying any fertilizer for at least four to six weeks, as the fresh soil provides sufficient nutrients and the stressed roots are susceptible to chemical burn.