Has your fiddle leaf fig been struggling to grow? Are you worried it may not make it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many people who have fiddle leaf figs have experienced issues with their plants not growing properly.
In this article, we’ll discuss the reasons why your fiddle leaf fig may not be growing and provide expert advice on how to get it back on track.
We’ll explore poor soil drainage, incorrect light and temperature, overwatering, pests, and more.
So, if you’re wondering why your fiddle leaf fig isn’t growing, read on to get the answers and advice you need to get your fiddle leaf fig thriving again!.
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Fiddle leaf figs require a lot of light, so it’s possible that your plant is not getting enough light.
It’s also important to make sure that the soil is not too soggy or too dry, and that it is fertilized every few months to keep it healthy.
If your plant is not growing, you may want to check to make sure it is getting the right amount of light, water, and nutrients.
Reasons Why Your Fiddle Leaf Fig May Not Be Growing
Fiddle leaf figs are popular houseplants, and they can bring a touch of greenery to your home.
However, if your plant isnt growing properly it can be a source of frustration.
There are a few common reasons why your fiddle leaf fig may not be growing, and understanding these reasons can help you give your plant the best care to ensure it thrives.
One possible cause of slow growth is poor soil drainage.
Fiddle leaf figs prefer well-draining soil that doesnt stay soggy, as this can cause root rot.
To check your soils drainage, dig a hole about 10 cm deep and fill it with water.
If the water has not drained after an hour, you may need to repot your plant into a pot with better drainage.
The light and temperature conditions can also affect your plants growth.
Fiddle leaf figs prefer bright indirect light, so if yours isnt getting enough, it can cause it to grow slowly.
They also dont like sudden temperature changes, so keep it away from drafty windows and doors.
Overwatering can also be a problem, as it can cause root rot and other issues.
To prevent this, make sure to check the soils moisture levels before watering.
The top 2-3 cm of soil should be dry before you add more water.
Finally, pests can also cause your fiddle leaf fig to grow slowly.
Inspect the leaves and stems of your plant for signs of pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
If you do find pests, you may need to use an insecticidal soap or Neem oil to get rid of them.
By understanding the common causes of slow growth in fiddle leaf figs, you can make sure your plant is getting the best care it needs to thrive.
Check the soils moisture levels, make sure its getting enough light and the right temperature, and inspect it for signs of pests.
With proper care, your fiddle leaf fig should be growing and thriving in no time.
Poor Soil Drainage
Poor soil drainage is often one of the most common reasons why a fiddle leaf fig is not growing.
This can happen when the soil contains too much clay or organic material that doesn’t allow water to pass through it easily.
In this case, the roots of the plant will not be able to access the necessary nutrients and water that it needs to grow.
To fix this problem, you should add a soil amendment such as perlite or sand to the soil to help it drain better.
You should also make sure that the pot that the plant is in has drainage holes in the bottom, so that any excess water can escape.
If the soil is still too wet, repot the fiddle leaf fig in a larger container with better drainage.
Incorrect Light and Temperature
Fiddle leaf figs are notoriously picky plants, and incorrect light and temperature are major factors that can lead to slow growth.
A fiddle leaf fig needs plenty of bright, indirect light, and if its not getting enough light, it may struggle to grow.
Additionally, the temperature of the room where the plant is kept can also have an effect on its growth.
Fiddle leaf figs prefer temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and if the temperature is too low, the plant will not be able to grow.
If your fiddle leaf fig is not growing, it may be because it is not getting the right amount of light or the right temperature.
To ensure your fiddle leaf fig is getting the best care, check the light levels and temperature of the room where the plant is kept.
Move the plant to a better lit area if it needs more light, and make sure the temperature is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
With the right light and temperature, your fiddle leaf fig should start to thrive.
Overwatering
When it comes to why your fiddle leaf fig isn’t growing, overwatering is one of the most common issues.
It’s important to understand that while fiddle leaf figs require a lot of water, they don’t like to be constantly wet.
Overwatering can cause root rot, which can kill the plant.
To prevent overwatering, make sure the soil is well draining.
Check the moisture levels of the soil before watering.
If the soil is too wet, it may be time to repot the plant in a well-draining potting mix.
Additionally, be sure to water the plant only when the soil is dry.
If unsure, poke your finger into the soil to check the moisture level.
If it’s damp, then the plant doesn’t need to be watered.
Lastly, make sure to water your plant slowly and evenly, so that the water can reach the root system.
With proper care, your fiddle leaf fig should thrive.
Pests
Pests can be one of the most common causes of slow growth in a fiddle leaf fig.
Insects, such as scale, mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids, can all cause damage to the plant if left untreated.
It’s important to inspect the leaves and stems for signs of pests, such as webbing, sticky residue, or discoloration.
If you find any of these signs, you should use an appropriate insecticidal soap or spray to eradicate the pests.
Additionally, you should also monitor your plant regularly for any returning pests.
With the proper care, your fiddle leaf fig should be able to thrive and grow healthily.
Checking the Soil’s Moisture Levels
When it comes to fiddle leaf figs, one of the most important factors to consider is soil moisture levels.
Too much moisture can lead to root rot, while too little can stunt the plants growth.
To keep your fiddle leaf fig healthy, its best to check the soil moisture levels at least once a week.
A simple test you can do to check the soil moisture levels is to insert a finger into the soil about two to three inches deep.
If the soil feels moist, you dont need to water your fiddle leaf fig.
If the soil feels dry, then its time to give it a good watering.
Additionally, its important to ensure the soil is well-draining; otherwise, the plant can suffer from too much moisture.
If youre not sure what type of soil to use for your fiddle leaf fig, look for a potting mix that is made specifically for houseplants.
This type of soil has a light texture, allowing it to retain moisture while also draining well.
Additionally, you can add organic matter such as compost, peat moss, or coco coir to improve the soils drainage and nutrition.
Its also important to note that the fiddle leaf figs soil should never be allowed to dry out; instead, it should remain lightly moist at all times.
Overwatering can be just as damaging as underwatering, so its important to stick to a watering schedule that works for your plant.
Ensuring the Right Light and Temperature
When it comes to caring for your fiddle leaf fig, making sure your plant receives the right amount of light and temperature is key.
If your plant is not getting enough light, it will not be able to photosynthesize properly and will not grow as quickly as it should.
Similarly, if the temperature is too hot or too cold, your plant will not be able to thrive.
For best results, fiddle leaf figs should be kept in temperatures between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit and should receive bright, indirect sunlight.
If you are unable to find the ideal temperature and light conditions in your home, consider investing in LED grow lights or an adjustable lamp to provide the necessary light for your plant.
Additionally, if you live in an area with particularly hot summers, consider moving your plant away from direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.
Finally, it can be helpful to use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of your home.
This will help you keep your fiddle leaf fig in the right temperature range and will help you be aware of any changes in the temperature.
When in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of caution and provide more light and warmth than you think your plant needs.
With the right light and temperature, your fiddle leaf fig should be able to thrive.
Inspecting the Leaves and Stems for Pests
When it comes to inspecting a fiddle leaf fig for pests, there are several signs to look for.
First and foremost, look for any visible pests, such as aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, or scale insects.
These pests can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap out of the leaves and stems, leaving them weakened and vulnerable to disease.
Additionally, they can cause distorted foliage and discoloration.
To check for pests, use a magnifying glass to inspect the undersides of the leaves and any crevices in the stems.
If you find any pests, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
Additionally, you can use a neem oil solution to help treat any existing infestations.
Another sign of pest damage is sticky spots or honeydew on the leaves.
This is a sign of aphids and scale insects, which feed on the sap of the plant.
They excrete a sweet substance known as honeydew, which can attract other pests such as ants or sooty mold.
To treat this, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to eradicate the pests.
Finally, you should check for any webs or silken threads on the leaves or stems.
These are signs of spider mites, which can also cause yellowing leaves, wilting, and distorted growth.
To treat spider mites, use a miticide or insecticidal soap.
By inspecting your fiddle leaf fig for pests, you can take steps to ensure your plant is healthy and thriving.
With proper care and attention, your fiddle leaf fig can enjoy a long and healthy life.
Final Thoughts
With proper care, your fiddle leaf fig can thrive.
To ensure your plant is healthy and growing, check the soil’s moisture levels, provide the right amount of light and temperature, and inspect the leaves and stems for pests.
With these simple steps, you can give your fiddle leaf fig the best chance to grow and flourish.