Fiddle leaf figs are a popular houseplant for a reason – their unique shape and size add a beautiful touch of nature to any home.
But what do you do when your beloved fiddle leaf fig starts to turn brown? Browning is a common issue for these plants, and it can be a source of frustration for the owner.
In this article, well discuss why fiddle leaf figs are prone to browning, what causes it, how to identify it in your plant, and how to reduce the risk of browning and fix it if it does occur.
Read on to learn all the expert tips for keeping your fiddle leaf fig healthy and green!.
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Fiddle leaf figs may turn brown due to a number of factors, including too much direct sunlight, inconsistent watering, and not enough humidity.
If the leaves are turning brown, check the environment to make sure the plant is getting the right amount of light, water, and humidity.
If the environment is not to blame, the browning could be caused by pests or disease.
In this case, it is best to seek professional advice to identify the problem and find a suitable solution.
What Is a Fiddle Leaf Fig?
A fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is an evergreen tree native to Western Africa.
It is known for its large, glossy, fiddle-shaped leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long.
The plant can reach heights of up to 6 feet, making it an ideal option for indoor spaces.
Fiddle leaf figs are popular houseplants due to their attractive shape and lush foliage.
They are also fairly easy to care for, making them a great option for beginner gardeners.
However, they are prone to browning and wilting if not properly cared for.
If you’ve noticed your fiddle leaf fig turning brown, there are a few things you should know.
Why Are Fiddle Leaf Figs Prone to Browning?
Fiddle leaf figs are a popular houseplant due to their large, lush foliage and attractive shape.
Unfortunately, they are prone to browning and wilting if not properly cared for.
Browning of fiddle leaf figs can be caused by several factors, including inadequate light, improper water levels, temperature fluctuations, and pests.
Inadequate light can be a major cause of browning in fiddle leaf figs, as they require bright, indirect light.
Without enough light, the leaves can start to turn brown, as the plant is unable to properly photosynthesize.
Additionally, improper watering can cause browning in fiddle leaf figs.
Overwatering can cause root rot, leading to browning, while underwatering can cause the leaves to dry out and turn brown.
Temperature fluctuations can also be an issue, as fiddle leaf figs require temperatures between 65-85F.
If the temperature gets too cold or too hot, the leaves can start to brown.
Lastly, pests such as mealybugs, scale, and spider mites can also cause browning in fiddle leaf figs.
The pests can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn brown and wilt.
To prevent browning of your fiddle leaf fig, ensure adequate light, water, and temperature, and check for pests.
Make sure your plant is getting plenty of bright, indirect light, and water when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Additionally, maintain consistent temperatures, avoiding drastic fluctuations.
Lastly, regularly check for pests, as they can cause significant damage if left unchecked.
With the right care, you can keep your fiddle leaf fig looking healthy and vibrant.
What Causes Fiddle Leaf Figs to Turn Brown?
Fiddle leaf figs are a popular houseplant, but they can be prone to browning if not properly taken care of.
Browning of the leaves can be caused by several factors, including improper light, water levels, temperature fluctuations, and pests.
Light is a major factor when it comes to keeping your fiddle leaf fig healthy and vibrant.
The plant needs plenty of bright, indirect light and should not be placed in direct sunlight.
If it is, the leaves can scorch and turn brown.
If the fiddle leaf fig is not getting enough light, the leaves may become yellow and brown as the plant is unable to photosynthesize effectively.
Water is also an important factor when it comes to preventing browning of the leaves.
The soil should be kept consistently moist but not saturated, as this can cause root rot.
If the soil is too dry, the leaves may turn brown, and if its too wet, the roots may not be able to access the oxygen they need to survive.
Temperature fluctuations can also contribute to browning of the leaves.
Fiddle leaf figs prefer temperatures between 65-75F (18-24C).
If the temperature gets too low, the leaves may turn brown as the plant is unable to produce enough energy to stay healthy.
On the other hand, if the temperature gets too high, the leaves may also suffer from heat stress and turn brown.
Finally, pests can also be a problem when it comes to browning of the leaves.
Various pests, such as aphids, mealybugs, and scale, can feed on the plant and eventually cause the leaves to turn brown.
Its important to check your plant regularly for signs of pests and take steps to get rid of them.
By taking the right steps, you can keep your fiddle leaf fig looking healthy and vibrant.
Ensure that the plant is getting plenty of bright, indirect light and the soil is kept consistently moist.
Keep the temperature in the ideal range, and check for pests if you notice any signs of browning.
With the right care, your fiddle leaf fig will stay looking lush and vibrant.
How to Reduce the Risk of Browning
Caring for a fiddle leaf fig requires some effort and patience, but it can be worth it when you see your plant thriving.
To reduce the risk of browning, the first step is to provide your plant with the right light.
Fiddle leaf figs need bright, indirect light, so make sure to place your plant in an area that receives plenty of indirect sunlight.
If your plant is not getting enough light, its leaves may turn brown and drop off.
Another important factor for preventing browning is to ensure that your fiddle leaf fig is getting the right amount of water.
Overwatering can lead to browning of the leaves, so make sure to check the soil before watering and only water when the top inch of soil is dry.
If you water too frequently, the roots may start to rot, leading to brown spots on the leaves.
Temperature is also an important factor in keeping your fiddle leaf fig healthy.
Fiddle leaf figs prefer temperatures between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit, so make sure your plant is not in an area that gets too hot or too cold.
Temperature fluctuations can lead to browning of the leaves, so try to keep the temperatures consistent.
Finally, check your fiddle leaf fig regularly for pests.
Pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects can cause browning of the leaves, so make sure to inspect your plant for any signs of pests.
If you do spot any pests, you can get rid of them using natural methods or insecticides.
Following these steps can help ensure that your fiddle leaf fig stays healthy and vibrant.
With the right light, water, temperature, and pest control, you can keep your fiddle leaf fig looking its best.
How to Identify Browning in Your Fiddle Leaf Fig
When it comes to diagnosing why your fiddle leaf fig is turning brown, the most important thing to do is to identify the problem.
Browning can take many forms, and understanding the symptoms can help you determine the underlying cause.
If you notice the edges of your fiddle leaf figs leaves turning brown and crispy, this is likely due to too much sunlight.
Fiddle leaf figs need bright and indirect light, so if youre keeping your plant in a spot thats too sunny, the leaves will start to burn.
On the other hand, if the leaf margins and tips are turning light brown or yellow, this is a sign of too little light.
Lack of light can cause the leaves to pale and eventually wilt and die.
Make sure to move your plant to a spot with more light, such as a sunny window.
If you notice the leaves becoming brown and mushy, this could be caused by overwatering.
Fiddle leaf figs dont like to be kept too wet and need to be watered infrequently.
Too much water can cause root rot, which will lead to browning and wilting of the leaves.
Lastly, brown spots on the leaves can be a sign of pests or diseases.
This is often caused by too much humidity or a lack of airflow.
To prevent pests and diseases, its important to keep your fiddle leaf fig in a spot with good air circulation and to keep the humidity levels low.
How to Fix Browning in Your Fiddle Leaf Fig
If youve noticed browning on your fiddle leaf fig, the first step is to identify the cause.
There are several potential causes, such as improper light or water levels, temperature fluctuations, and pests.
Once youve identified the cause, you can take steps to correct it.
To prevent browning of your fiddle leaf fig, its important to ensure adequate light and water.
Fiddle leaf figs need bright, indirect light and should not be placed in direct sunlight.
They should also be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.
If the soil is too wet, it can cause root rot, which can lead to browning of the leaves.
Temperature fluctuations can also cause browning of your fiddle leaf fig.
Fiddle leaf figs prefer temperatures between 65-80F and should not be placed in a drafty area.
If the temperature fluctuates too much, it can cause browning of the leaves.
Finally, pests can cause browning of your fiddle leaf fig.
Check the leaves for any signs of pests, such as webbing or small insects.
If you find any, take steps to remove them, such as using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
With the right care, you can keep your fiddle leaf fig looking healthy and vibrant.
Ensure adequate light and water, maintain a stable temperature, and check for pests regularly.
With the right care, your fiddle leaf fig will remain vibrant and healthy.
How to Prevent Browning in Your Fiddle Leaf Fig
When it comes to keeping your fiddle leaf fig healthy and vibrant, preventive care is key.
Here are some steps you can take to ensure your fiddle leaf fig doesn’t experience browning: Provide adequate light.
Fiddle leaf figs prefer bright, indirect light.
If you don’t get enough natural light in your home, use a grow light to provide your plant with the light it needs.
Monitor water levels.
Fiddle leaf figs need to be watered regularly, but don’t want to be waterlogged or sitting in standing water.
When you water your fiddle leaf fig, make sure the soil is evenly moist and let the top layer dry out between waterings.
Monitor temperature.
Fiddle leaf figs prefer temperatures between 65-75F (18-24C).
Avoid placing your plant near heating and cooling vents, as temperature fluctuations can cause browning.
Check for pests.
Fiddle leaf figs are particularly susceptible to pests like mealybugs and spider mites.
Examine your plant periodically for signs of pests.
If you find any, take immediate action to remove them.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure your fiddle leaf fig stays healthy and vibrant.
With the right care, your fiddle leaf fig will remain lush and green for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Having a fiddle leaf fig in your home can be a wonderful way to add some greenery and life to your space.
However, it’s important to know why these plants are prone to browning so that you can take the necessary steps to prevent it.
With the right care and attention, you can keep your fiddle leaf fig looking healthy and vibrant.
Make sure to provide adequate light, water, and temperature, and check for pests regularly.
With the right care, your fiddle leaf fig will stay green and healthy for years to come.