If your fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is losing leaves faster than you can say “photosynthesis,” don’t toss it yet. The #1 reason these trendy but temperamental houseplants struggle? Improper watering.
Forget rigid schedules and soaking sprees. The real secret to a lush, long-living fiddle leaf fig is mastering a deep but infrequent watering method—a trick that mimics the tree’s natural rainforest roots. Combine that with proper drainage, humidity, and some myth-busting know-how, and you’ve got yourself a thriving plant.
What Makes Fiddle Leaf Figs So Fussy?
Originating from the tropical rainforests of West Africa, these plants are used to sunny canopies, rich soil, and high humidity. In your apartment? Not so much. That’s why they react dramatically to shifts in water, air, and light. But most problems boil down to one thing: how you water them.
The Watering Trick: Deep and Infrequent
1. Don’t Follow a Calendar—Follow the Soil
Check the top 2 inches of soil with your finger. If it’s dry, water. If it’s damp, wait.
2. Water Thoroughly—Not Lightly
When it’s time, drench the soil until water runs out the bottom. This encourages deep root growth and prevents surface-root dependency.
3. Let the Soil Dry Out Between Waterings
Overwatering suffocates roots and causes root rot. Wait until the soil is dry before the next watering.
4. Drainage Isn’t Optional
Use pots with drainage holes and well-draining soil (mix perlite + potting mix). Never let your plant sit in water.
Common Watering Myths—Busted
Myth #1: “I water every Sunday.”
Truth: Plants don’t follow calendars. Soil moisture and environment matter more than rigid schedules.
Myth #2: “If leaves are drooping, water immediately.”
Truth: Droopy leaves can signal over- or underwatering. Always check the soil first.
Myth #3: “More water = faster growth.”
Truth: Overwatering causes root rot, which kills the plant.
What’s the Best Type of Water?
Filtered water or rainwater is best. Tap water often contains fluoride and salts that can build up in the soil and damage roots. If using tap, let it sit out overnight to allow chlorine to evaporate.
How to Adjust Watering by Season
Fiddle figs slow down in winter and ramp up in spring/summer. Here’s a rough breakdown:
| Season | Watering Frequency |
|---|---|
| Summer | Every 7–10 days |
| Winter | Every 2–3 weeks |
| Spring/Fall | Every 10–14 days |
Always adjust based on soil moisture, not just season.
How to Tell If You’re Underwatering
- Brittle, dry, crispy leaves
- Leaves curling inward
- Soil pulling away from the pot
If that’s your fiddle, increase watering—but still ensure you’re letting it dry in between.
How to Know When It’s Time to Repot
- Roots poking out the drainage holes
- Water runs straight through without soaking
- Growth has stalled
Use a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter and refresh the soil to reduce compaction.
Other Care Essentials
Light
Bright, indirect sunlight is the sweet spot. East or north-facing windows are ideal.
Humidity
Target 40–60% humidity. Try:
- Humidifiers
- Pebble trays
- Misting (lightly)
Fertilizer
Use a balanced 3-1-2 formula once a month during growing season (April–August). Don’t fertilize in winter.
Cleaning
Wipe the large leaves with a soft damp cloth biweekly to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.
Advanced Tip: Bottom Watering
This method helps evenly hydrate soil:
- Place pot in a basin of 2–3 inches of water.
- Leave for 15–30 minutes.
- Remove and let excess water drain.
Use this occasionally to reset hydration but mix with top watering for balance.
Optional: Fiddle Leaf Fig Watering Template
| Day | Action |
|---|---|
| Sunday | Check soil |
| Tuesday | Mist leaves |
| Friday | Deep water (if dry) |
| Monthly | Fertilize, clean leaves |