Fiddle Leaf Fig Care: Proper Watering Frequency
How often do you water a fiddle leaf fig? Fiddle-leaf figs are quite picky about water, so you'll need to keep a close eye on watering them. Too much or too little water can both cause this delicate plant to complain. Therefore, we've created this blog post to provide you with the details of properly watering your fiddle-leaf fig. Let's dive in!
How to Water a Fiddle Leaf Fig
There are different watering routines for your fiddle-leaf fig, and it’s important to find the one that suits your plant and environment. One approach is to thoroughly water the plant until water drains out of the bottom, about 10-15%. This method is effective, but you must wait for the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry completely before watering again to avoid overwatering.
Another option is to water smaller amounts regularly. For example, if you prefer to water weekly, you'll need to determine how much water your plant needs. As a general guideline, a fiddle-leaf fig under 1 foot tall may require approximately 1 cup of water per week, while a 3–4 foot plant typically needs around 2 cups per week.
Factors Affecting Watering
While the general watering guidelines are helpful, several factors can affect your fiddle-leaf fig’s specific water needs, which should be considered when fine-tuning your watering routine.
Plant Size
The size of your fiddle-leaf fig directly impacts how much water it needs. Smaller plants dry out faster, while larger ones can hold moisture longer. Here's a guideline based on plant size:
- Less than 1 foot: 8 ounces of water per week
- 1–2 feet: 8–12 ounces of water
- 2–3 feet: 16 ounces of water
- 3–6 feet: 24 ounces of water
- More than 6 feet: 32 ounces of water
Soil
The type of soil affects its ability to retain moisture. Well-draining soil will dry out faster, meaning you'll need to water more frequently. On the other hand, soil that retains moisture for longer might require less frequent watering. Always make sure the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
Environment
Another important influencing factor is environmental conditions, including light and temperature. In areas with strong sunlight and high temperatures, the water will evaporate faster, requiring more frequent watering. In cooler areas or during winter, water evaporation slows down, and you’ll need to water less frequently.
Pot Size
The size of the pot impacts how quickly the soil dries out. A larger pot holds more soil, which can retain water for longer, meaning you may need to water less often. A smaller pot, however, dries out more quickly, requiring more frequent watering. Always ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.
If Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Gets Too Much or Too Little Water
Overwatering or underwatering can both damage your plant, and it’s essential to identify the issue as soon as possible. Here are the signs:
Signs of Overwatering
- Yellowing Leaves
- Brown Spots or Edges
- Wilting Despite Wet Soil
- Root Rot
- Drooping Leaves
Signs of Underwatering
- Dry, Crispy Leaves
- Curling Leaves
- Wilting Leaves
- Slow Growth
- Leaf Drop
Bottom Watering
Another option is bottom watering. Simply place the pot in a shallow tray with water and let it soak for 15–20 minutes. Once the soil is moist, remove the pot and allow any excess water to drain. This method lets the plant absorb only the water it needs. While effective for smaller fiddle-leaf figs, it may be less practical for larger ones.
FAQs
Q1: How often to water fiddle leaf Fig in winter
In winter, water less frequently due to lower light levels and cooler temperatures, around every 2–3 weeks. Always check that the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry before watering again.
Q2: How often to water fiddle leaf fig in summer?
In summer, your fiddle-leaf fig will require more frequent watering due to increased sunlight and temperature, about once a week or even more often. Always check the moisture level by feeling the top 1–2 inches of soil.
Q3: Should I mist my fiddle leaf fig every day?
No, daily misting is not recommended. While fiddle leaf figs like humidity, frequent misting can encourage fungal diseases. Instead, use a humidifier or mist occasionally when needed.
