Ficus Lyrata, popularly known as Fiddle Leaf Fig or Banjo Leaf, is native to the tropical forest of West Africa. These plants are epiphytes meaning they grow as a seed on other trees where they get plenty of sunlight.
These are evergreen plants and can easily be planted indoors all around the year. The plants have large-glossy green leaves and grow upright, around 6 to 10 feet tall. The plant is usually kept on the floor as it grows more swiftly than other plants.
Their bold appearance can enlighten the mood of their surroundings. That’s the reason fiddle leaf figs are featured in many magazine shoots and are available at many plant stores.
What kind of Environment is required for the growth of the plant?
Sunlight
Like any other plant, fiddle leaf fig, too, needs sunlight. However, these plants require filtered sunlight. So, it is highly recommended to keep these plants near a window(an east-facing window is highly recommended) where they can get ample(around 10 to 12 hours) sunlight. Keep in mind direct sunlight can burn the leaves, and low sunlight hinders the growth of the plant.
Water
Leaves are the first ones to send a message that they receive inconsistent amounts of water. Before watering the plant, check whether the plant has released water or it has completely dried out. Too much water can leave dark brown spots and damage the roots. Less water can turn the leaves brown along the edges, and eventually, the leaves will drop.
Temperature
The plant requires the same temperature as its native land - warm and humid; the cold temperature is not appropriate for their health. The suitable indoor temperature for fiddle leaf fig is around 65 - 75°F but not below 50°F. Any plant can be placed near fiddle leaf fig to increase humidity.
Either spray clean water on your plant on a daily basis or keep it over the pebble-filled water tray in a way that the pot won’t touch the water below. Or you can use a humidifier if you have any, to keep the environment humid for your plant.
Air - conditioners and heating vents can change temperature drastically, putting the plant in a state of shock. Draft causes serious trouble for the plant, so it is necessary to keep the windows shut and put the plant in a place where the draft won't affect it.
Timely Pruning
Plants grew soundly when they pruned on a regular basis; the same goes for the fiddle
leaf fig. Cutting down on damaged or overgrown leaves paved the way for the healthier
growth of plants as it will let the plant breathe.
The plant can be pruned to the desired height or shape to give it a beautiful appearance.
Is the plant prone to any disease?
Though the plant is not prone to any specific disease, bugs, mites, and scales attack the plant and damage leaves. The damage can be visible as dark patches or spots. This issue can be solved by spraying insecticides and pesticides.
Fiddle leaf fig needs extra care than other plants, but this care is worthwhile as it elevates the mood of your surroundings, either your house or your workplace.
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