Fiddle leaf figs are popular houseplants loved for their large, dramatic leaves. But despite their reputation as relatively easy-care plants, fiddle leaf figs can sometimes be fussy growers. If your plant seems to have stalled and is not putting out new leaves, there are several common issues that may be causing the problem.
The most frequent reasons a fiddle leaf fig stops growing are:
- Irregular watering
- Insufficient light
- Underfertilization
- Pests
- Diseases like root rot
- Repotting stress
- Low humidity
Finding out why your fiddle leaf fig isn’t doing well and making a few easy changes to how you care for it can help it do well again. If the conditions are right, most fiddle leaf figs will quickly start growing quickly again and making their famous big, shiny leaves.
Why Fiddle Leaf Figs Stop Growing
As tropical rainforest natives, fiddle leaf figs thrive in warm, humid conditions with abundant moisture and light Replicating these ideal conditions indoors can sometimes be challenging, but is key to keeping your plant healthy and encouraging growth
Irregular Watering
One of the main reasons fiddle leaf figs stop growing is that they don’t get enough water. These plants like lightly moist, but not soggy soil. The plant will be stressed if the soil dries out all the way, but root rot will happen if it stays too wet.
If the top few inches of soil on your fiddle leaf fig get dry, you should water it. Stick to a regular schedule, like once a week. It’s important to be consistent because watering plants at odd times stresses them out and makes their leaves fall off.
Insufficient Light
Fiddle leaf figs need bright, indirect light to thrive. Low light will cause sparse, small leaves and stunted growth. For fastest growth, place your plant near an east or west-facing window where it receives consistent sunlight.
Slow growth and yellowing leaves are signs your plant needs more light. You can also supplement with a grow light if natural light is limited.
Underfertilization
These plants grow quickly but need a lot of food and fertilizer to look their best. If plants don’t get enough food, they will grow slowly and their leaves may turn yellow. Liquid fertilizer that has been diluted to half strength should be used every two to four weeks in the spring and summer.
Pests
Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale are common fiddle leaf fig pests. An infestation will weaken the plant and inhibit growth. Check for webs, sticky spots, or bugs on the leaves’ undersides. Wiping leaves down with insecticidal soap or neem oil will eliminate most pests.
Diseases
Overwatering can lead to fungal or bacterial root rot. This disease causes brown leaf spots, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. Improving drainage and allowing the roots to dry out can help recover an infected plant. Removing affected roots and repotting may be necessary.
Repotting Stress
Fiddle leaf figs are sensitive to repotting and other changes. After repotting, it’s common for plants to show signs of stress like dropped leaves and reduced growth for a few months as they recover. Make any environmental changes gradually and give plants time to adjust.
Low Humidity
Humidity levels below 40% can hinder growth. Dry air causes leaf tips and margins to brown. Mist your plant daily, use a pebble tray, or get a humidifier to provide the humidity these tropical plants prefer.
How to Encourage Fiddle Leaf Fig Growth
Once you’ve diagnosed the reason your plant’s growth has stalled, take action to address the underlying problem. With a few simple fixes, you can get your fiddle leaf fig thriving again.
Provide Plenty of Bright, Indirect Light
Place your plant in a spot where it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily without direct afternoon sun hitting the leaves. East or west-facing windows are ideal. Rotate the plant periodically so all sides get light. If increasing natural light isn’t possible, use a grow light to supplement.
Water Thoroughly and Consistently
Check the soil before watering and only water when the top few inches become dry. Water until it drains freely from the pot’s bottom. Stick to a regular weekly watering schedule, adjusting as needed based on your plant and conditions.
Fertilize Regularly During Growing Season
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 2-4 weeks in the spring through summer. Fertilizing helps satisfy fiddle leaf figs’ high nutrient needs for lush growth.
Monitor for Pests
Check the leaves and stems regularly for signs of pests like webbing, sticky spots, or bugs. Using a damp cloth, wipe leaves down every 2-3 weeks to remove dust and deter pests. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap immediately if pests are found.
Repot in Fresh Soil Annually
Repotting in new, well-draining soil provides nutrients and prevents root rot. Do this in spring every 2-3 years or when roots fill the pot. Choose a pot just 1-2 inches larger to avoid stressing the plant.
Increase Humidity
Use a humidifier or pebble tray to maintain 40-60% humidity. Mist your plant daily to supplement humidity. Keep it away from heating and AC vents that can dry the air.
Allow Time to Adjust to Changes
Go slowly when moving or repotting your plant and expect some stress reaction. Lost leaves or temporarily slowed growth after repotting or changes are normal as the plant recovers.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Fiddle Leaf Figs
Replicating the warm, tropical conditions where fiddle leaf figs naturally grow is the key to encouraging fast, healthy growth year-round.
- Light: Bright, indirect light for 6+ hours daily
- Water: Water thoroughly when top inches of soil are dry. Allow soil to dry between waterings.
- Humidity: Consistently 40-60% humidity
- Temperature: Average room temperatures from 60-80°F
- Soil: Well-draining potting mix, repot annually
- Fertilizer: Balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks in growing season
When all its needs are met, your fiddle leaf fig will reward you with its signature large, waxy green leaves and vigorous growth. A few simple tweaks to care is often all that’s required to get your plant back on track when growth stalls.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fiddle Leaf Fig Growth
How fast should a healthy fiddle leaf fig grow?
When grown in ideal conditions, fiddle leaf figs can grow up to 18 inches per year. Expect new leaves every 4-6 weeks in the growing season. Growth slows in winter.
Where do fiddle leaf figs grow new leaves from?
New leaves emerge from buds at the top of the plant. The large, waxy green leaves unfurl from furled new growth starting as smaller lighter green leaves.
Should I cut off the top of my fiddle leaf fig to encourage growth?
Pruning off the top can redirect growth hormones and promote branching and bushiness. Only prune back up to 30% of the plant, and avoid pruning frequently.
How long does it take a fiddle leaf fig to recover from repotting?
Fiddle leaf figs usually need 2-3 months to recover from repotting stress before actively growing again. Some leaf drop after repotting is normal. Be patient and avoid further changes during recovery.
Why are my fiddle leaf fig’s leaves curling?
Curled leaves can indicate underwatering or overwatering stress. Feel the soil to determine whether the plant needs more frequent watering or if poor drainage is causing issues. Consistent watering helps prevent leaf curl.
What size pot does a fiddle leaf fig need?
Choose a pot that’s about 2 inches wider than the current roots or root ball. Fiddle leaf figs like being slightly root bound but need room for growth. Avoid going more than 2 inches bigger when repotting to prevent stress.
Conclusion
With large, showy leaves that add drama to any space, it’s no wonder fiddle leaf figs are so popular. But when your plant stops actively growing, it can be worrying. The good news is that with a few simple tweaks to care, you can get your fiddle leaf fig thriving again in no time.
Pay close attention to factors like light, water, humidity and fertilization since these have the biggest impact on growth. Maintain bright, indirect light, consistent moisture, humidity around 50%, and monthly fertilizer applications and your fiddle leaf fig will reward you with vigorous, healthy expansion. Catching problems early and addressing root causes head-on will set your plant up for success.
How Fast do Fiddle Leaf Figs Grow?
Fiddle Leaf Figs can grow quite quickly if they are in the right environment. However, like all plants, their rate of growth (and general health) depends on how well they are cared for and their environment. This means that growth rates do vary.
This is because Fiddle Leaf Figs are tropical plants. The more like their natural environment they are, the faster they’ll grow and healthier they will be overall.
Why isn’t my Fiddle Leaf Fig Growing?
Keep in mind that there are a couple of instances where it’s actually normal for your Fiddle Leaf Fig to not grow, and everything is actually fine with your plant (phew!).