Fiddle Leaf Fig Dropping Leaves? Yellow Leaves Fix Now! (Causes & Quick Solutions)

Yellowing and leaf drop in Fiddle Leaf Figs (Ficus lyrata) are commonly caused by insufficient light, improper watering, temperature stress, or root issues. Follow these steps to revive your plant.

Core Fixes:

1. Check Roots:
   • If roots are black/mushy or soil smells sour, root rot is likely.
   • Act Fast: Trim rotten roots, soak healthy roots in carbendazim (e.g., multi-purpose fungicide) for 30 mins.
   • Repot: Use well-draining soil mix (5:3:2 ratio of peat moss + perlite + coco coir).
2. Adjust Environment:
   • Light: Place in bright, indirect light (e.g., 1 meter from an east-facing window). Avoid direct sun to prevent scorching.
   • Temperature: Maintain 15-25°C (60-77°F). Keep away from AC/heaters. Move to warmth (>10°C/50°F) in winter.
3. Water Correctly:
   • Use the “Soak and Dry” method: Water only when top 2-3cm (1 inch) of soil is dry, then water thoroughly. Prevent soggy soil.
   • Check Moisture: Insert a chopstick/skewer into the soil.
   • Hold Fertilizer: Avoid feeding for 3 weeks. Minimize moving the plant until new growth appears.

Common Issues & Mistakes:

• Brown Leaf Edges: Often due to underwatering/low humidity. Keep soil evenly moist (not wet).
• Rust Spots (Yellow/Brown Patches): Caused by high humidity + poor airflow. Treat with mancozeb or carbendazim. Avoid wetting leaves.
• AVOID:
  • Wiping leaves with beer (attracts pests).
  • Covering with plastic bags (causes re-root rot).
• Black Spots/Wet Lesions: May indicate cold damage or anthracnose. Isolate plant and spray with chlorothalonil.

Pro Care Tip: Water 2-3 times weekly in spring/summer, reduce to 1-2 times weekly in fall/winter. Winter = less water + keep warm!