Are you wondering why your fiddle leaf fig’s leaves are turning yellow? If your once vibrant and verdant fiddle leaf fig is looking a bit droopy and pale, it’s time to solve the mystery! In this article, we’ll discuss what a fiddle leaf fig is and why its leaves might be turning yellow, from too much sunlight to insect infestations.
We’ll also explore how to prevent your fiddle leaf fig from turning yellow in the future.
So, let’s get started on solving the mystery of your yellowing fiddle leaf fig!.
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Fiddle leaf figs can turn yellow if they are not getting enough light.
Make sure the plant is located in a bright spot that gets at least four to six hours of natural light each day.
Additionally, check the soil to make sure it is moist but not overly wet.
If the soil is too wet, it can cause the leaves to turn yellow due to root rot.
Finally, make sure the plant is not getting drafts of cold air, as this can also lead to yellow leaves.
What is a Fiddle Leaf Fig?
Fiddle leaf figs (Ficus lyrata) are a species of fig tree native to tropical regions of western Africa.
They are prized for their attractive, violin-shaped leaves and their low maintenance care requirements.
When cared for properly, these plants can grow to be quite large, with leaves three feet in length.
Fiddle leaf figs prefer bright, indirect sunlight and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.
They are also sensitive to overwatering and fertilizer, so it is important to monitor the soil moisture and use fertilizer sparingly.
In addition, they can be prone to insect infestations, so it is important to inspect their leaves regularly for signs of pests.
Causes of Fiddle Leaf Fig Leaves Turning Yellow
One of the most common causes of yellowing leaves on a fiddle leaf fig is too much direct sunlight.
When the foliage is exposed to too much direct sunlight, it can cause sunburn or leaf scorching.
This is a sign that the plant needs to be moved to an area with bright, indirect sunlight to prevent further damage.
In addition to too much direct sunlight, yellowing leaves on a fiddle leaf fig may also be caused by too little water.
When the plant is not getting enough water, the leaves will start to turn yellow and drop off.
It is important to water when the top inch of soil is dry, and to check the moisture content of the soil before watering.
Other potential causes of yellowing leaves may include too much fertilizer, which can cause the foliage to burn, or an insect infestation.
If you notice any signs of pests, such as small holes in the leaves, it is important to treat the plant as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
To prevent yellowing leaves on a fiddle leaf fig, it is important to keep the plant in a location with bright, indirect sunlight, water it when the top inch of soil is dry, and avoid over-fertilizing the plant.
If you notice any signs of pests, treat the plant immediately to avoid further damage.
With the right care and attention, a fiddle leaf fig can be a beautiful addition to any home.
Too Much Sunlight
When it comes to fiddle leaf figs, too much direct sunlight can be disastrous.
Fiddle leaf figs, also known as Ficus lyrata, thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, so if they are exposed to too much direct sunlight, their leaves can become sunburned and scorched.
Sunburned and scorched leaves will turn yellow and eventually dry out, leading to dead leaves and an unhealthy plant.
To prevent this from happening, it is important to place the fiddle leaf fig in a location with bright, indirect sunlight, such as an east or west facing window.
It is also important to monitor how much sunlight the plant is getting and adjust its location accordingly.
If the leaves start to turn yellow, it is a good indication that the plant is getting too much direct sunlight and should be moved to a place with more shade.
Too Little Water
When it comes to the health of your fiddle leaf fig, one of the most common reasons for yellowing leaves is too little water.
Over-watering can be just as detrimental, but when your fiddle leaf fig is not receiving enough water, it can start to show signs of distress.
Without enough water, the leaves will begin to yellow and curl, and the soil will become dry and hard.
To prevent this from happening, make sure to water your fiddle leaf fig when the top inch of soil is dry.
A good way to check is to insert your finger into the soil and feel the moisture level.
If the soil is dry, it is time to water.
When watering, be sure to water until you see water coming out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.
This will ensure that the roots are getting enough moisture.
Too Much Fertilizer
Yellowing leaves on a fiddle leaf fig can also be caused by too much fertilizer.
Fertilizer, while important for providing essential nutrients to the plant, can overwhelm the plant if it is applied too frequently or in too high of a concentration.
Too much fertilizer can cause a buildup of salts and minerals in the soil, which can damage the root system and cause yellowing of the leaves.
If you’ve been applying fertilizer to your fiddle leaf fig, it’s a good idea to stop and see if the yellowing subsides.
If it does, you may want to consider reducing the frequency or diluting the concentration of fertilizer you use.
Insect Infestations
Though not as common as other causes of yellowing leaves on a fiddle leaf fig, insect infestations can also cause yellowing leaves.
If you notice your plant’s leaves turning yellow, it is important to check for any signs of insect activity.
Common signs of an insect infestation on a fiddle leaf fig include small, white spots on the leaves, brown or yellow patches on the leaves, and webs or clusters of eggs on the leaves or stems.
If you do find evidence of an insect infestation, it is important to take action quickly to prevent the problem from getting worse.
Treatment for an insect infestation will depend on the type of insect causing the problem.
If you find small, white spots on the leaves, these are likely mealybugs, which can be treated with a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water.
If you find webs or clusters of eggs, these are likely spider mites, which can be treated with a mixture of neem oil and water.
In either case, it is important to spray the affected areas of the plant and the soil around it with the solution to ensure the infestation is treated thoroughly.
It is also important to isolate any infected plants from your other houseplants to prevent the infestation from spreading.
Clean up any fallen leaves or debris from the plant to prevent the insects from multiplying and reapplying the treatment solution every week until the problem is resolved.
Following these steps will help you get your fiddle leaf fig back to health and prevent the yellowing leaves from returning.
Preventing Yellow Leaves
Preventing yellow leaves on your fiddle leaf fig is key to keeping it healthy and vibrant.
To do this, it is important to place the plant in a location with bright, indirect sunlight.
Direct sunlight can cause sunburn, leaf scorching, and other damage that can lead to yellowing leaves.
It is also important to water your fiddle leaf fig when the top inch of soil is dry.
Too little water can lead to dehydration, which can cause yellowing of the leaves.
Too much water can also cause root rot, which can also lead to yellowing leaves.
Additionally, it is important to avoid over-fertilizing your fiddle leaf fig, as this can lead to leaf yellowing due to nutrient imbalance.
Applying a balanced fertilizer every few months is generally enough to keep your fiddle leaf fig healthy.
Finally, be sure to inspect your fiddle leaf fig regularly for signs of insect infestations, as these can also lead to yellowing leaves.
If you do spot any insects, be sure to take action quickly to prevent further damage.
By following these tips, you can help ensure your fiddle leaf fig stays healthy and its leaves remain vibrant.
With proper care and attention, your fiddle leaf fig can thrive and remain a beautiful addition to your home.
Final Thoughts
Now you know why your Fiddle Leaf Fig is turning yellow, and how to prevent it from happening again.
Make sure to give your plant the right amount of light, water, and fertilizer, and keep an eye out for any signs of insect infestation.
With proper care, your Fiddle Leaf Fig can stay healthy and vibrant.
Take the mystery out of yellowing leaves and keep your Fiddle Leaf Fig looking its best!.