Fiddle leaf figs have become a popular houseplant, admired for their large, violin-shaped leaves and impressive stature. Many owners, however, encounter a common issue: their leaves begin to curl upward. This curling often signals environmental stress, and understanding these signals is the first step toward a thriving plant.
Understanding Upward Leaf Curling
Upward leaf curling in fiddle leaf figs is a protective mechanism, signaling environmental stress. This response reduces the leaf’s exposed surface area, helping the plant conserve moisture and shield itself from intense light or other external pressures. Physiologically, curling often relates to turgor pressure within leaf cells. When conditions are not optimal, cells lose turgidity, changing the leaf structure.
Common Causes of Upward Leaf Curling
Several factors can cause upward leaf curling.
Insufficient watering is a frequent cause. When a fiddle leaf fig does not receive enough water, its cells lose turgor pressure, leading leaves to curl inward and upward to minimize moisture loss. This often presents with leaves that might also appear droopy or have brown, crispy edges.
Excessive light exposure can also cause leaves to curl upward. Fiddle leaf figs prefer bright, indirect light; too much direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorching. The curling reduces the leaf’s surface area directly exposed to intense rays, which can also accelerate soil moisture evaporation.
Low humidity is another factor. Fiddle leaf figs ideally prefer 40% to 65% humidity. In dry indoor environments, the plant curls its leaves to decrease water evaporation and retain moisture. This can result in pockmarked or shriveled new leaves.
Sudden or extreme temperature fluctuations can stress the plant. Fiddle leaf figs thrive in stable temperatures, generally between 60°F and 85°F, and do not tolerate sudden drops below 60°F or spikes above 90°F. Exposure to cold drafts or excessive heat can cause significant stress.
Pest infestations can also manifest as distorted or curling leaves. Common pests like spider mites or thrips feed on plant sap, damaging leaf tissues. Their presence can cause leaves to curl as the plant attempts to limit access or mitigate further damage.
New, unfurling leaves sometimes appear naturally curled or wrinkled. This is a normal part of their development as they expand and flatten out over time. This temporary curling is not a sign of distress and will resolve on its own as the leaf matures.
Diagnosing the Specific Cause of Curling
To diagnose the cause of upward leaf curling, systematically inspect your fiddle leaf fig.
Soil Moisture: Check the soil moisture level by inserting your finger about two to four inches into the soil. The soil should feel mostly dry before the next watering; consistently wet soil can indicate overwatering, while bone-dry soil points to underwatering.
Light Exposure: Assess how much direct sunlight the plant receives throughout the day, especially during peak hours. Fiddle leaf figs need bright, indirect light for about six hours daily. Consider if the plant is too close to a window with intense, unfiltered light, or if it is in a dimly lit corner.
Humidity and Temperature: Examine the ambient humidity, especially during dry seasons or if heating/AC is active. Signs of low humidity include dry, brittle leaves, or leaves that feel crackly. Also, check for any drafts or sudden temperature changes near the plant’s location.
Pests: Conduct a thorough inspection for pests, paying close attention to the undersides of leaves and along the stems. Look for small insects, webbing, or unusual spots that might indicate an infestation.
Leaf Age: Note the age of the curled leaves; new growth that is temporarily curled is normal, but curling on older, established leaves suggests an issue.
Effective Solutions for Upward Curling Leaves
To address upward curling, implement these solutions:
Watering: Water your plant thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, allowing the top two to three inches of soil to dry out between waterings. This approach helps prevent both underwatering, which leads to curling, and overwatering, which can cause root issues.
Light: Move your plant to a location where it receives bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours daily. If direct sun is unavoidable, consider using sheer curtains to filter the light, or move the plant a few feet back from the window. Conversely, if light is insufficient, supplementing with a grow light can be beneficial.
Humidity: Increase humidity around the plant. Mist leaves, use a pebble tray, or place a humidifier nearby. Aim to maintain 40% to 65% humidity to mimic their native tropical environment.
Temperature: Stabilize the plant’s temperature. Keep your fiddle leaf fig away from drafts, heating or air conditioning vents, and exterior doors. Maintaining a consistent room temperature, ideally between 60°F and 85°F, helps prevent temperature shock and subsequent leaf curling.
Pests: Address pest infestations promptly. For common pests like spider mites or mealybugs, wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap. A diluted neem oil solution (mixed with water and a few drops of dish soap) can also be sprayed to treat and prevent pests.
Preventive Care for Healthy Fiddle Leaf Figs
Preventive care helps maintain healthy fiddle leaf figs and avoid future curling.
Consistent Care: Establish a regular watering routine based on the plant’s needs and environmental conditions, rather than a fixed schedule. Consistent light exposure, ideally bright and indirect, also helps prevent stress-induced curling.
Regular Monitoring: Inspect the leaves, stems, and soil surface weekly for any changes in appearance or the presence of insects. Early detection allows for prompt intervention before significant damage occurs.
Proper Fertilization: Fertilize your fiddle leaf fig monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, typically with an NPK ratio of 3-1-2. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter months.
Stable Environment: Avoid frequently moving the plant, as fiddle leaf figs prefer stability. Ensure the plant is in a location free from drafts and significant temperature fluctuations.
Leaf Cleaning: Wiping the large leaves periodically with a damp cloth keeps them clean for efficient photosynthesis. This also removes dust that impedes light absorption and provides an opportunity for close inspection.