You just bought a fiddle leaf fig tree and now you're wondering how to care for it. Navigating the care for a fiddle leaf fig might seem challenging, particularly if you're new to houseplants or if your green friend isn't living up to those glossy interior design images. Though known for their somewhat demanding nature, mastering a few fundamental care principles can transform your fiddle leaf fig into a thriving, vibrant addition to your space. Fear not, beginner plant enthusiasts! With the right guidance, caring for this stunning plant is entirely within your reach.

Let's dive into the essentials of fiddle leaf fig care, setting you and your plant up for success.

In this article, we present you with an essential checklist to guide you through the proper care of your fiddle leaf fig tree. Whether you're a new plant parent that just bought a fiddle leaf fig, or seeking to improve your current plant care routine, these key points will help you develop a strong foundation for nurturing your houseplant to its fullest potential.

Plant Care Basics Overview

The fiddle leaf fig tree is actually very simple, even for a beginner. Light, water, and drainage are the key aspects that can cause early failure if not applied correctly. Once you properly cover the care basics, the rest becomes very simple. By following the guidelines below, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to provide the best possible environment for your fiddle leaf fig tree to flourish.

The fiddle leaf fig tree is actually very simple. Light, water, and drainage are the key aspects that can cause early failure for a beginning plant parent. Once you properly cover the basics, the rest becomes very simple.

But first, let's address a common scenario: If you're reading this, it's likely that you've just bought a fiddle leaf fig tree from the store, or perhaps it's been a month or two and your tree doesn't look as vibrant as you had hoped. Maybe you're noticing the leaves turning brown, changing color, or dropping, or you're wondering, "why isn't my fiddle leaf fig tree growing?"

Am I right?

If this sounds like you, make note of these few items before we dig into the essential checklist...

New Plant Parent Checklist

Before you even think about watering, fertilizing, or anything else, take a moment to check off each item in this fiddle leaf fig care for beginners.

What to do the first week:

1. Location

• [ ] Find the brightest spot in your home with mostly indirect light.
• [ ] Avoid heating/cooling vents.
• [ ] Place the tree in this spot and do nothing else.

2. Restraint

• [ ] Avoid touching, or moving the tree for at least a week to let it acclimate to its new environment.
• [ ] Refrain from watering unless the soil is bone dry. (Stores often overwater plants, and further watering may cause more harm.)

3. Observation

• [ ] Observe the tree for any signs of stress or existing issues.
• [ ] Don’t panic if a few leaves drop—they may just be adjusting.

4. Stay Calm

• [ ] Avoid repotting for at least 3 months unless there’s a severe issue like root rot, diseased soil, or being root-bound.
• [ ] Read more: The Art of Repotting Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

You guessed it. Fiddle leaf fig care for beginners includes doing absolutely nothing other than finding the best spot for your tree and leaving it alone. With that out of the way, let's dive into the essential checklist and learn how to create the perfect environment for your plant to grow.

Don't even think about changing your plant's pot for at least 3 months, unless it's already in the throes of root rot, has diseased soil, or is severely root bound.

This plant's journey highlights a series of missteps. First, it didn't receive sufficient light in its new home, leading to signs of shock. Second, the plant parent rushed to repot instead of addressing the light issue. Third, the new pot lacked proper drainage. As a result, the plant is now on the road to demise.

Remember, every fiddle leaf fig tree is unique, and slight adjustments may be needed based on your specific plant's needs. Observing your tree's responses and making small modifications as required will help you fine-tune your care routine over time.

So, let's get started with the essential checklist for proper fiddle leaf fig tree care in order of most important!

Essential Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Care Checklist

1. Light & Location

• [ ] Place the fiddle leaf fig tree in bright, indirect light.
• [ ] Ensure the space gets warm from the light, but the sun is not directly hitting the tree (preferably near a south-facing window).
• [ ] Avoid more than 2 hours of direct sunlight per day; use sheer curtains to diffuse excessive light.
• [ ] Some direct light early in the morning or late afternoon is ideal, but not necessary.
• [ ] Add a fiddle leaf fig grow light if the above locations are not available in your home.
• [ ] Avoid locations near heating/cooling vents.

2. Drainage

• [ ] NON-NEGOTIABLE! Ensure the planter pot has holes in the bottom for water to escape.
  

3. Soil

• [ ] Use a well-draining, sterile soil mix, not a commercial potting soil.
• [ ] Recommended sterile mix: 30% coco coir and the rest a mixture of pumice/perlite, sand, and/or horticultural charcoal. See our homemade indoor planting mix recipe here.
• [ ] Avoid mixes with compost, wood materials, and other organic materials that decompose over time.

4. Temperature

• [ ] Maintain a temperature between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 24°C).
• [ ] Avoid cold drafts or vents blowing hot/cold air directly on the tree.

5. Water

• [ ] Wait until the top 60-80% of the soil feels completely dry.
• [ ] When it's time to water, flood the plant thoroughly until excess water drains out the bottom, then soak up any standing water in the catch pan.
• [ ] For dry climates, consider a spritz of distilled water to the leaves 1 to 2 times per week.

6. Fertilizer

• [ ] The very last step to this care guide is to use a proper fiddle leaf fig fertilizer with a high ratio of urea-free nitrogen content, such as Fiddle Leaf Treats®. Fertilize every time you water while it's actively growing.

This fiddle leaf fig plant care starter kit includes plant food, Big Leaf Energy® wellness spray and microfiber gloves at 15% off the regular price. It's perfect for any beginner.

Congratulations on completing the essential checklist for proper fiddle leaf fig tree care! You're well on your way to becoming an expert fiddle leaf fig parent. But guess what? There's more to discover to make your tree truly fall in love with you!

Ready to take your fiddle leaf fig tree care to the next level? Check out our companion article, "How to Get Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree to Fall in Love with You." In it, we'll dive deeper into the art of routine leaf care, effective pest control, and explain the details that take your tree from being simply alive to thriving.

We're rooting for you in becoming a true green thumb champion. You got this! With a little extra TLC and the tips shared in our companion article, your fiddle leaf fig tree will thrive and become the centerpiece of your indoor oasis.

By following these guidelines, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to provide the best possible environment for your fiddle leaf fig tree to flourish.

Remember, caring for a fiddle leaf fig tree is a journey of learning, patience, and a touch of green-thumb magic. Embrace the process, enjoy the journey, and revel in the joy of nurturing a magnificent living being.

Happy growing, and may your fiddle leaf fig tree continue to bring natural beauty and inspiration to your home!