Fiddle leaf figs are the current Internet sensation and darlings of the aesthetic world. They have been a mainstay in every houseplant recently. A houseplant owner who doesn't want or have fiddle leaf fig in the household is rare to find.
With their large, glossy leaves and elegant presence, they can transform any room into a green oasis. However, if you want your fiddle leaf fig to thrive, there's one crucial aspect of care you shouldn't overlook: repotting.
STEP 1: Prepare your New Pot
When choosing a new pot for your plant, opt for one that’s just a bit larger than the current one—about 1 to 2 inches bigger. A pot that's too large may retain excess moisture, causing the soil to stay wet for too long and potentially suffocating your plant.
Ensure the new pot is thoroughly cleaned, washing it with soap, rinsing it well, and drying it completely. Using a dirty container can harbor microorganisms from the old soil, posing a risk of infection to your plant
STEP 2: Lift the Plant out of Old Pot
Begin by gently grasping the plant, making sure to avoid pulling on the trunk or branches to prevent damage. Carefully loosen the pot around the edges; if it proves difficult to remove, you can use a small knife to gently cut the soil away from the sides.
When holding the plant, grasp it firmly at the base. Tip the plant and pot onto their side, then gently wiggle and lift the plant out. This process should be relatively easy, but if the plant is still stuck, you can try squeezing the pot to further loosen it.
The goal of this step is to carefully remove as much of the old soil as possible while minimizing root damage. Though a little breakage is inevitable, it's essential to remember that the small roots are the most crucial, as they are responsible for nutrient absorption. The larger roots mainly provide stability for the plant.
To aid in removing the old soil, you can place the root ball into a bucket of water or use a hose to gently wash away the soil. Throughout the repotting process, it's important to keep the roots from drying out. Ensure that the water you use is not too cold.
STEP 4: Prune your Roots
Before repotting your Fiddle Leaf Fig, gently remove it from its current pot and inspect the roots. Look for any unhealthy roots that are brown, black, or mushy, and trim these away with clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. If the root ball is densely packed, trim back the longest healthy roots by about one-third to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming root-bound.
Additionally, shake off or gently wash away as much of the old soil as possible to help eliminate any pests or diseases. This root pruning process promotes a healthier root system and prepares your Fiddle Leaf Fig for successful repotting.
STEP 5: Fill the Planter New Soil
Add a layer of soil to your new container to provide a bed for the root ball to rest. Make sure your root ball will not sit too high once it’s in place, as the top of the soil should be slightly lower than the top of the container. Add more soil if it’s sitting too low.
Begin by adding new soil to the planter until it is about one-third full. Next, gently place your plant back into the pot, taking care to observe the height at which it is positioned.
STEP 6: Place the Root Ball into New Pot
Place the Fiddle Leaf Fig in the center of its new pot. Fill in the sides with fresh potting mix, making sure the plant remains at the same depth as it was in its previous pot. It might be helpful to have someone assist you in holding the plant upright while you add soil around the edges.
Remember that the soil will settle, so press it down firmly around the roots to provide support. Ensure the soil surface is even. After repotting, clean the Fiddle Leaf Fig's leaves with a soft cloth to remove any soil dust, leaving your plant looking neat and tidy in its new home.
Don’t skip this step! Watering the plant helps the soil settle around the roots, ensuring none are left exposed. Water thoroughly until you see a lot of excess draining out. You might notice the soil level drop; if so, you can gently but firmly press the soil down with your hands or tap the pot to help it settle.
Wait to water your Fiddle Leaf Fig again until the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. You can test this with your finger.
STEP 8: Ensure Care
Caring for a Fiddle Leaf Fig (FLF) involves giving it the right balance of light, water, and attention. These popular houseplants thrive in bright, indirect light, so place them near a window but out of direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
Water your FLF when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring that excess water can drain away to prevent root rot. Keep the humidity level moderate to high, as they prefer a bit more moisture in the air.
When To Repot?
1. Your Tree Has Outgrown your Pot
If it’s been about a year since you last upgraded your tree's pot, or if you notice the soil pulling away from the edges, or roots emerging from the top or bottom, it’s time to repot.
The silver lining is that a growing tree indicates good health, so your fiddle leaf fig should handle the transition well. The most you might see is some temporary droopiness and a leaf or two droppings.
2. Bacterial Infection
Classic bacterial leaf spot on a fiddle leaf fig is characterized by multiple spots on each leaf. Bacterial infections spread rapidly and can be deadly to your plant, so it’s important to act quickly.
Begin by removing all the affected leaves, even though this might shock the tree, and place it in a location with excellent light. If you see more spots, it's time to repot the tree. At this stage, the plant's chances of recovery are about 50/50, making repotting a worthwhile risk.
Root rot is a nightmare for Fiddle Leaf Fig owners! It can be fatal to your tree. If the spotting isn’t severe or doesn’t continue, repotting might not be necessary. However, if the spots worsen despite treatment, it's time to repot.
If your pot has poor drainage, your tree is unlikely to dry out before root rot sets in, and the issue will persist. In this case, your tree will fare better in a new, well-draining pot with a fresh start.
4. Growth of Fungus
If you spot fungus or mushrooms growing on the surface of your soil, start by removing them with a spoon. Next, sprinkle cinnamon around the soil, as it has natural antifungal properties.
Ensure your plant receives ample light and avoid overwatering. Only consider repotting if you see brown spots or if the fungus reappears rapidly.
Optimal Time To Repot your Fiddle Leaf Fig
Timing is key for repotting your Fiddle Leaf Fig. The best time to do it is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. This allows your plant to bounce back quickly from the transplant shock and adjust to its new surroundings.
Avoid repotting during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Need for Repotting
Fiddle Leaf Figs need room to grow as their roots expand in search of nutrients and water. If left in the same pot too long, they can become root-bound, limiting growth and causing stress.
Repotting gives the roots space to grow and refreshes the soil, ensuring access to fresh nutrients. It also allows you to check for pests and diseases, helping to prevent any potential problems.
Benefits of Repotting
1. Room for Root Growth
Just like any living being, Fiddle Leaf Figs need space to grow, and their roots are no different. As the plant grows, its roots spread out in search of nutrients and water. If it stays in the same pot for too long, the roots can become root-bound, winding around themselves and stifling growth, which can stress the plant. Repotting gives the roots the space they need to spread out and thrive.
2. Access to Fresh Nutrients
The soil in your plant's pot holds crucial nutrients that your Fiddle Leaf Fig needs to grow and stay healthy. As the plant uses these nutrients over time, the soil can become depleted. Repotting provides a chance to replenish the soil with a fresh, nutrient-rich mix, ensuring your plant continues to have the essential resources it needs to thrive.
3. Pest and disease prevention
Indoor plants can be vulnerable to pests and diseases. Over time, issues like spider mites or diseases may develop in the soil or on the plant's roots. Repotting gives you a chance to examine the root system and soil, allowing you to address any pests or diseases before they become a bigger problem.
You might need a few things before repotting your Fiddle Leaf Fig which are as listed below;
New Pot: Pick a pot that is 1-2 inches wider in diameter than the current one and ensure it has drainage holes.
Fresh Potting Soil: Opt for a well-draining, peat-based mix designed for tropical plants.
Gardening Tools: Gather a small trowel, scissors, or pruning shears for any necessary root trimming.
Watering Can: Use it to moisten the soil both before and after repotting.
Protective Gear: Wear gloves to shield your hands from dirt and potential irritants.
Caring for A Fiddle Leaf Fig after Repotting
Immediate Aftercare
Position your Fiddle Leaf Fig in a spot with bright, indirect light to reduce stress. Steer clear of direct sunlight, as it can burn the leaves. Keep humidity levels high by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidity tray nearby, since Fiddle Leaf Figs prefer a humid environment. Pay close attention to your watering schedule. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, making sure the soil stays moist but not soggy.
Long-term Care
Resume fertilizing about a month after repotting. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly during the growing season to supply essential nutrients. This helps support healthy growth and keeps the plant vibrant and strong.
Frequently check your Fiddle Leaf Fig for pests like spider mites or mealybugs. Early detection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can prevent infestations from spreading. Also, trim any leggy growth to encourage a fuller, bushier look, enhancing the plant's overall appearance. Also repot you plant every 1-2 year.
Even with the highest level of care, some problems are just inevitable for Fiddle Leaf Figs. We have enlisted some problems along with their solution that are prevalent among fiddle leaf figs along with the solutions.
1. Yellowing Leaves
Cause: It’s often caused by a well-meaning carer who has simply gone overboard with watering,
Solution: Ensure the pot has proper drainage and adjust your watering schedule.
2. Dropping Leaves
Cause: extreme temperature or watering issues
Solution: drafts from chilly air conditioning or too much hot air can stress out your plant
3. Damaged Leaves
Cause: Pest Infestation
Solution: It can be managed with a natural pesticide like insecticidal soap, neem oil, antiseptic, or pyrethrin spray.
4. White or Tan Patches
Cause: Sunburn
Solution: Move a plant to a location with less direct sunlight.
