Fiddle Leaf Fig trees are a popular houseplant choice for many due to their unique, eye-catching appearance.
But when these plants become leggy, it can be difficult to restore them to their former lush, full shape.
If youre looking for ways to revive your Fiddle Leaf Fig, then youve come to the right place! In this article, well be discussing what causes Fiddle Leaf Figs to become leggy, as well as how to trim, repot, and support them.
Well also look at the right amount of sunlight and water these plants need to stay healthy.
So read on to learn more about how to fix a leggy Fiddle Leaf Fig!.
Table of Contents
Short Answer
To fix a leggy fiddle leaf fig, start by pruning back the plant to encourage new growth.
Make sure to cut the stems at a 45-degree angle and leave some of the leaves on the stem.
Then, repot the fiddle leaf fig in a slightly larger pot with fresh potting soil that contains plenty of drainage.
Finally, make sure the fiddle leaf fig is receiving bright, indirect sunlight and is watered regularly.
What is a Leggy Fiddle Leaf Fig?
Fiddle leaf figs (Ficus lyrata) are a popular houseplant known for their large, elegant leaves and easy maintenance.
These plants can last for years and can even reach heights of up to 8 feet if cared for properly.
Unfortunately, over time, these plants can become “leggy,” meaning they become thin and stretched out.
This is often the result of too much direct sunlight, inadequate water, or not enough soil nutrients.
As a result, the leaves may appear pale or yellow, and the stems may become weak and spindly.
Thankfully, there are a few easy steps you can follow to fix a leggy fiddle leaf fig and restore it to its original beauty.
What Causes a Fiddle Leaf Fig to Become Leggy?
Fiddle leaf figs are beloved for their unique and large leaves, however, over time, these plants can become leggy or appear thin and stretched out.
This is caused by several environmental factors.
First, too little light can cause the plant to reach towards the light, resulting in a leggy appearance.
Secondly, too much water can also cause leggy growth.
This is because the soil is too wet and the plant isnt able to take up the necessary nutrients in order to thrive.
Finally, too much fertilizer can cause a fiddle leaf fig to become leggy.
This is because the plant is unable to process the large amounts of nutrients present and causes it to become weak and spindly.
How to Trim a Leggy Fiddle Leaf Fig
Trimming a leggy Fiddle Leaf Fig is an essential part of restoring its original beauty.
The first step is to identify the areas where the plant is thin and stretched out.
Once identified, you can begin trimming the leaves to reduce the plant’s height.
To do this, use sharp pruning shears or scissors and make sure to cut at a 45-degree angle.
Its important to remove only the affected leaves and to leave the rest of the plant intact.
This will ensure that the plants natural shape is preserved.
After trimming, you can also repot the plant into a container with a slightly larger diameter.
This will give the plant more space to grow and will help prevent it from becoming leggy again in the future.
Additionally, consider using a moss pole to provide extra support.
Insert the pole into the soil and use twine or wire to secure the plant to the pole if needed.
This will give the Fiddle Leaf Fig a place to climb and will help it maintain its shape.
Finally, be sure to provide your plant with the right amount of sunlight and water to promote new growth.
With these steps, you can restore your leggy Fiddle Leaf Fig to its original beauty.
How to Repot a Leggy Fiddle Leaf Fig
Repotting a leggy fiddle leaf fig is one of the best ways to restore its original beauty and encourage new growth.
When repotting, its important to choose a container with a slightly larger diameter than the previous one, as this will give the roots more room to grow and the foliage more room to spread out.
Start by filling the new container with a soil mix that is tailored to fiddle leaf figs and provides good drainage.
Gently remove the plant from its current pot and place it in the new one.
Once the plant is in the new pot, fill in around the edges with soil and press down gently to ensure there are no air pockets.
If possible, you may also want to insert a moss pole into the soil to give the plant a place to climb.
This will help support the plant and encourage it to reach for the sunlight.
Be sure to check the pole regularly and remove any dead leaves or moss that may be growing on it.
Finally, water the soil thoroughly and place the plant in an area with bright, indirect sunlight.
Fiddle leaf figs need at least four hours of sunlight a day, so be sure to rotate the plant every few days to ensure it gets adequate light from all angles.
With these steps, you can help your leggy fiddle leaf fig get back to its original beauty.
Supporting a Leggy Fiddle Leaf Fig with a Moss Pole
For those who have a leggy fiddle leaf fig, one of the best ways to restore its shape is to provide it with support in the form of a moss pole.
A moss pole is a stick or pole that is inserted into the soil of the pot and encourages the plant to climb.
This helps to fill out the plant’s foliage and gives it the support it needs to grow in a more upright position.
When selecting a moss pole, it’s important to choose one that is the right size for the plant.
Too small a pole may not offer enough support and the plant may still be lanky.
Too large a pole may be too heavy for the plant and cause it to topple over.
In addition, the moss pole should be placed firmly in the soil and should be positioned in the center of the pot so that the plant can climb up it evenly.
Once the moss pole is in place, it’s important to provide the fiddle leaf fig with the right amount of sunlight and water.
This will help to promote new growth and encourage the plant to use the pole for support.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to use a light-weight trellis or other support system to help the plant keep its shape as it grows.
Using a moss pole to support a leggy fiddle leaf fig is a great way to restore its shape and encourage its growth.
With the right amount of sunlight, water, and support, any leggy fiddle leaf fig can be restored to its original beauty.
Providing the Right Amount of Sunlight and Water
When it comes to restoring a leggy fiddle leaf fig, providing the right amount of sunlight and water is key.
Fiddle leaf figs are native to tropical regions and thrive in bright, indirect sunlight.
When placed in direct sunlight, the leaves may become sunburned, leading to further damage.
To ensure your plant receives the right amount of sunlight, keep it near a bright window and rotate it regularly.
Additionally, make sure the pot is placed in an area with good air circulation to prevent the buildup of humidity.
When it comes to watering, water the soil until it is evenly moist but not soggy.
Fiddle leaf figs like their soil to remain on the dry side, so be sure not to overwater the plant.
To test the soil, insert your finger about two inches into the soil and if it feels dry, then its time to water.
Additionally, if possible, use filtered or distilled water for your plant, as tap water can contain too many minerals for the plant to absorb.
If you notice the leaves start to yellow or drop, then its a sign that the plant is stressed and needs more water.
Examples of Healthy Fiddle Leaf Figs
When looking for examples of healthy fiddle leaf figs, you should look for plants that have a symmetrical shape and bright green leaves.
The leaves should be thick and full, without any brown spots or discoloration.
The stem should be strong, and the plant should have a bushy appearance.
The leaves should be arranged in a balanced way, with no leaves overcrowding each other.
Finally, look for signs of new growth, such as new shoots and leaves, which indicates that the plant is thriving.
Final Thoughts
Leggy fiddle leaf figs can be restored to their original beauty with a few simple steps.
Start by trimming the leaves to reduce the plants height, then repot the plant into a container with a slightly larger diameter.
Provide extra support with a moss pole and make sure to give the plant the right amount of sunlight and water.
With these tips, you can revive your leggy fiddle leaf fig and show it off for all to see! So, take the time to care for your fiddle leaf fig and enjoy its beauty for years to come.