Fiddle leaf figs are tropical plants, so they don’t do well in cold temperatures. It’s best to keep them somewhere that’s between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures that are lower than 60 degrees should be avoided, as this can cause the leaves to become brittle and even drop off.
If possible, try to keep your fiddle leaf figs away from cold drafts and windows. You should also make sure to keep them away from heat vents and air conditioners, as these can dry out the air and cause your plant to suffer from heat-related stress.
Finally, try to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations, as this can cause your fiddle leaf fig to experience shock and potentially begin to die.
Can a fiddle leaf fig survive the cold?
No, a fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) cannot survive cold temperatures. It is a tropical species that requires temperatures between 65-85ºF (18-29ºC ) to survive. If temperatures drop below 40ºF (4ºC) it could potentially cause irreversible damage.
Even if it doesn’t freeze, cool temperatures will prevent it from growing. Cold temperatures also make fiddle leaf figs more susceptible to other problems, like bacterial and fungal infections. If you live in a cold climate, you’ll need to provide extra protection for your fiddle leaf fig during the winter.
This may include bringing it indoors, providing a heat lamp, adding an extra layer of insulation around the pot, and/or providing extra humidity. It is also important to keep in mind that with the change of environments may come changes in light and temperature.
These changes can cause leaf drop, so it will be important to adjust your fiddle leaf fig’s care accordingly.
Can I leave fiddle leaf fig outside?
No, you should not leave a fiddle leaf fig outside because it is not a plant that is particularly cold-hardy. Fiddle leaf figs thrive in warm, humid environments with bright, indirect sunlight. Generally, temperatures no lower than 50 to 55°F (10 to 13°C) are best for fiddle leaf figs and temperatures in the mid-60s (15 to 18°C) are very difficult for this tropical species.
Additionally, fiddle leaf figs can suffer from exposure to cold winds, rain, and hail. Therefore, it is best to keep this plant indoors in a warm, sunny spot in order to protect it from the elements.
How often should I water fiddle leaf fig?
Fiddle leaf figs require consistent watering and should be watered once the soil has become relatively dry. Depending on the size of the pot and amount of soil, you will likely need to water your fiddle leaf fig once every two to three weeks.
To determine if your plant needs to be watered, insert your finger 1 to 2 inches into the soil. If the soil feels dry and/or crumbly, it’s time to water. If the soil still feels moist, wait a few more days before watering.
Additionally, the amount of light and temperature of your home may influence the frequency you will need to water your plant. A plant located in a cooler spot or one receiving lower light levels will not require as frequent watering.
If the room or area you keep your fiddle leaf fig has higher temperatures or more direct sunlight, you may need to water more often.
Where should a fiddle leaf fig be placed in a home?
Fiddle leaf figs prefer bright, indirect sunlight, so the best place for one in a home is in an east-facing window. As east-facing windows provide the most consistent light during the day, it’s ideal for the needs of a fiddle leaf fig—such as providing the consistent brightness required for their optimal growth nearest to the window.
On the other hand, if the fiddle leaf fig will not be receiving enough light from an east-facing window, then a south-facing window may also be used—but the light will have to be monitored as south-facing windows are more likely to create hot spots that could lead to burning the leaves.
Additionally, west-facing windows should be avoided as the light is too direct and could fry the leaves.
When choosing the right spot, make sure to keep the fiddle leaf fig away from vents, heating elements, and air conditioners. Additionally, take into consideration the room temperature and humidity levels, as fiddle leaf figs need a moderate temperature level, with optimal relative humidity levels between 40-50%.
Also be sure to keep the fiddle leaf fig away from direct drafts and appliances that release warm air.
Can fiddle leaf fig take full sun?
No, a fiddle leaf fig plant should not be placed in an area that receives full sun. These tropical plants will not tolerate direct, intense sunlight, and they prefer bright, indirect light. If placed in an area that receives full sun, the leaves can become scorched and discolored.
These plants also prefer temperatures between 65 and 75°F, and if placed in an area with intense heat from the sun, their leaves and stems can become damaged and dehydrated. To provide the best care for a fiddle leaf fig, find an area with bright, indirect light and moderate temperatures.
You can also move the plant around the room or house, according to the sun, rather than leaving it in a permanent location.
Can I put my fig tree outside?
Yes, you can put your fig tree outside, but you should understand that there are certain conditions and considerations to take into account. Depending on your climate, there are certain areas of your yard that will be more suitable for your tree.
First, consider the temperature of the location you choose. If your area experiences temperatures that drop below 30°F, your fig tree will be better off inside for the winter. If your area does not drop below this temperature, then you can consider planting your tree outdoors.
Also, it’s important to consider the amount of sun your fig tree will be exposed to. Like many trees, fig trees prefer full sun, though they can survive in part shade. Where you place your tree should be an area of your yard that receives five to six hours of direct sunlight every day.
When you do put your fig tree outside, it’s important to take the proper steps to avoid damage from frost and other inclement weather. You can protect your tree in the winter by layering it with burlap bags, or if you’re expecting a cold snap, you can move it indoors temporarily.
Having a fig tree outside can be a great addition to your yard, but you should consider the above conditions and take the necessary steps to protect your tree from damage.
How much sun does a fiddle leaf fig need?
Fiddle leaf figs prefer bright, indirect sunlight, but can tolerate lower light levels as well. They should be placed in an area that receives several hours of indirect sunlight daily (typically near a window) and should be rotated regularly to ensure all of the leaves are evenly exposed to light.
During the summer, providing your fiddle leaf fig with an hour of direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon is beneficial; however, avoid putting it in direct, hot, afternoon sun as it can scorch the leaves.
Alternatively, you can use an artificial grow light to provide your fiddle leaf fig with additional light if it is not in an area that receives enough natural sunlight. Keep in mind that as your fiddle leaf fig matures, it will require more and more light, so you may want to consider moving it to a brighter area.
Should I cut brown spots off fiddle leaf fig?
It is not recommended to cut brown spots off of a fiddle leaf fig. These spots are usually caused by a fungal infection, so it is important to take a holistic approach to treating the infection before considering pruning the brown leaves.
It is important to look into the environmental causes of the infection in order to ensure that similar issues don’t arise in the future. The environment should be kept moist and not too warm. Monitor the light, air circulation, and water level in the potting soil to keep conditions ideal for the plant’s growth.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to leave the brown spots on the plant to prevent more infection from spreading since the infected area is walled off. If the issue persists, use a fungicide to treat the infection.
After taking proper measures, it should be safe to cut off the brown spots when absolutely necessary.
When should I repot my fiddle leaf?
The best time to repot your fiddle leaf is when the pot feels lightweight and the roots are tightly packed at the root ball. This usually happens every 1-2 years, depending on the size of your pot, the amount of water given, and the ambient humidity level.
When repotting, use a pot only a few inches larger than the current pot and fill it with fresh potting soil. Make sure to leave the root ball intact when transferring it to the new pot so that the plant doesn’t experience stress.
Adding a stake to the pot to hold the plant in place is also recommended. Additionally, be sure to avoid over-watering your fiddle leaf, as too much water can cause root rot and stunt the plant’s growth.
What happens if a fiddle leaf fig gets too cold?
If a fiddle leaf fig gets too cold, it can lead to a number of issues that make it difficult to maintain health and growth. Cool temperatures can lead to yellowing and dropping leaves, fungal disease, stunted growth, and root rot.
When temperatures drop below 55℉, the plant’s leaves can become distressed, begin to yellow, and eventually fall off. In severe cases, the plant can die. However, reviving a fiddle leaf fig from cold shock can be done.
To do so, check the root system for signs of rot in order to prevent further damage. Also, make sure to keep the plant in indirect sunlight and water it sparingly. As the plant adjusts to its new environment, be sure to monitor for growth and new leaf growth.
How do you acclimate a fiddle leaf fig to outdoors?
When acclimating a fiddle leaf fig to the outdoors, start out by doing so gradually over time. First, place the plant in a semi-shaded area and move it out into direct sun a little bit more each day.
It’s best to avoid placing the plant in full sun right away, as this can cause sunburn or other damage to the leaves. Over the course of a month or so, increase the amount of time the plant spends in direct sun (but make sure its receives indirect sun during the hottest part of the day).
Test the soil around the plant to make sure it is well-draining, as fiddle leaf figs do not do well if the soil is constantly soggy or wet. You should also provide regular waterings, depending on the temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors.
Finally, keep an eye out for pests or disease that might have hitchhiked with the fig when you brought it outdoors. Regular assessments of the plant will help you monitor its health and adapt your acclimation process accordingly.
What makes fiddle leaf figs happy?
Fiddle Leaf Figs require bright, indirect, filtered light and temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C- 23°C). It’s generally recommended that they be places in an east-facing window, but they can also flourish in a south-facing one.
Keep the soil relatively moist, but allow the top one or two inches of soil to dry out between waterings. The compost should stay evenly moist, but never soggy or waterlogged. Util scorting feeding (diluted plant food once a month during the growing season) and regular misting of their leaves with room-temperature water for humidity.
Their finicky nature means they aren’t the most beginner friendly plant, but their thick, sturdy leaves make them worth the effort!.