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If you’re a plant lover, chances are you’ve heard of the fiddle leaf fig. This tall, elegant plant has become a popular choice for adding a touch of greenery to homes and offices. However, like any plant, a fiddle leaf fig can fall victim to various issues that can cause it to wither and die. It’s essential to know how to tell if your fiddle leaf fig is dying. Being able to identify the signs of a dying fiddle leaf fig is important so you can take action and save your plant before it’s too late.

One of the most common signs that your fiddle leaf fig is dying is yellowing leaves. If you notice your plant’s leaves turning yellow, it’s a sign that something is wrong. Other signs to look out for include yellow or brown spots on leaves, droopy or wilting leaves, excessive loss of leaves, and discolored or mushy roots.

Noticing these signs early on can help you understand the causes and fix them on time. Here we’ll explore the signs your fiddle leaf fig is dying, what causes these issues, and what you can do to save your plant.

Dead Fiddle Leaf Fig? Signs of a Dying Fiddle Leaf Fig

Gardening is a combination of observation and care. Your fiddle leaf fig is no exception and even the most experienced plant parents can start to worry. How do I know if my fig tree is dying? Let’s look at the red flags your plant is showing you and decode those signals.

Yellowing Leaves

The color of the leaves is among the first signs to look for. Yellowing leaves are a common sign that your fiddle leaf fig is in distress. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, or lack of nutrients.

Fiddle leaf figs prefer moist, but not waterlogged soil. It’s very important to strike the right balance of consistent moisture.

Fiddle leaf figs are heavy feeders and if their nutritional needs are not met, the leaves start to suffer.

If you notice yellowing leaves, it’s important to assess the soil moisture level and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. You may also want to consider adding fertilizer to the soil to provide your plant with the necessary nutrients.

Brown Spots on Leaves

Brown spots on the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig can be a sign of a fungal infection or pest infestation. Overwatering can also be a culprit here, causing brown spots on the leaves.

Yes, pesky bugs on indoor plants can wreak have on these plants, regularly inspect your fiddle leaf fig.

Environmental conditions and changes can contribute to brown spots on the leaves as well. Exposure to extreme temperatures, drafts, or sudden fluctuations in humidity can cause stress to your fiddle leaf fig and lead to leaf damage.

If you do notice brown spots, examine the leaves closely to determine the cause. You may need to adjust your watering schedule, treat the plant for pests, or repot the plant in fresh soil to prevent further damage.

Drooping Leaves

Oh, those sad drooping leaves. They can be another common sign and alarming sight that your fiddle leaf fig is in distress. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, or lack of sunlight.

If you notice the plant’s foliage is starting to sag and droop, it’s important to assess the soil moisture level. Overwatering again can lead to saturated soil, suffocating the roots and depriving them of essential oxygen. Not enough water can cause the plant to droop because it’s struggling to draw up the necessary moisture to maintain its leaf structure.

If you feel this is the case you can try and adjust your watering schedule. You may also want to consider moving your plant to a location with more sunlight.

If your fiddle leaf fig is losing leaves at the bottom, it could be a sign of root rot.

Causes of a Dying Fiddle Leaf Fig

Nursing your fiddle leaf fig back to health requires attentiveness and patience. You’ll need to address the underlying causes of yellow leaves, brown spots on leaves, and drooping leaves.

Here are 4 causes to keep a watchful eye for.

Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common causes of a dying fiddle leaf fig. If you’re watering your plant too frequently, or if it’s sitting in a pot with poor drainage, the roots can become waterlogged and begin to rot. This can lead to yellowing leaves, brown spots, and a general decline in the plant’s health.

What does an overwatered fiddle leaf fig look like?

Yellow or brown wilting leaves that fall off the plant. The brown spots will be near the center of the leaves and around the edges. Multiple yellow leaves almost always means too much water. You may notice a foul smell or slimy roots when you take your fiddle leaf fig out of its pot.

To avoid overwatering your fiddle leaf fig, make sure you’re only watering it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Also, be sure to use a pot with good drainage holes and avoid letting your plant sit in standing water.

Underwatering

On the other hand, underwatering can also cause your fiddle leaf fig to die. If you’re not watering your plant enough, it can become dehydrated and wilt. This can lead to brown, crispy leaves and a general lack of growth.

To avoid underwatering your fiddle leaf fig, make sure you’re watering it consistently and thoroughly. Water your plant until water runs out of the drainage holes, and be sure to check the soil regularly to make sure it’s not too dry.

Lack of Sunlight

Fiddle leaf figs thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. If your plant isn’t getting enough light, it can become weak and spindly, with yellowing leaves and a lack of growth.

Does that mean your fiddle leaf fig is doomed to die in the winter? In a season where most places get less sunlight, this is not necessarily true. Sure, the growth rate can be slower, but all hope is not lost. Fiddle leaf figs can survive the winter if given proper care and the right environment.

To ensure your fiddle leaf fig is getting enough light, place it near a window that gets plenty of indirect sunlight. If your plant is getting too much direct sunlight, however, it can also become damaged. Consider using a sheer curtain or moving your plant slightly away from the window to protect it from too much sun.

Pests and Diseases

Finally, pests and diseases can also cause your fiddle leaf fig to die. Common pests that affect fiddle leaf figs include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can cause yellowing leaves, brown spots, and a general decline in the plant’s health.

To prevent pests and diseases from affecting your fiddle leaf fig, be sure to inspect your plant regularly for signs of infestation. If you do notice pests, treat your plant with an insecticide or an organic pest control solution.

How to Revive a Dying Fiddle Leaf Fig

If you notice that your fiddle leaf fig is showing signs of dying, you can take action to revive it. Here are some steps to follow:

Assess the Damage

First, you need to assess the damage to your fiddle leaf fig. Check the leaves for discoloration, wilting, or dropping. Look at the soil to see if it’s too dry or too wet. Also, check the roots for signs of rotting or damage.

Can you save a fiddle fig with no leaves? Look for any signs of new growth, such as buds or green leaves emerging from the stem. Gently remove the plant from its pot and examine the roots for root rot or damage. If the roots are healthy you may be able to replant the fiddle leaf fig in fresh soil and give it time to recover. If there are no signs of life, the plant may be dead and beyond saving.

Adjust Watering and Lighting

Once you’ve assessed the damage, you can adjust the watering and lighting of your fiddle leaf fig. Make sure you’re not overwatering or underwatering your plant. Fiddle leaf figs prefer well-draining soil, so make sure the soil is not waterlogged. Also, make sure your plant is getting enough light. Fiddle leaf figs need bright, indirect light.

Prune the Tree

If your fiddle leaf fig has dead or damaged leaves, you should prune them off. This will help redirect the plant’s energy to healthy leaves and encourage new growth. You can also prune back any leggy or overgrown branches to promote a fuller, more compact plant.

You should prune the plant when it’s actively growing, typically in the spring or summer. Start by removing the dead or damaged leaves from the stem of the plant. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the stem.

Treat for Pests and Diseases

If you notice pests or diseases on your fiddle leaf fig, you should treat them immediately. Common pests include spider mites and mealybugs, while common diseases include root rot and leaf spot. Use a natural or chemical treatment to get rid of pests or diseases, and make sure to follow the instructions carefully.

You can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil spray, like neem oil if it has common pests like aphids and mealybugs. For an infestation of spider mites or scale insects, you may need a more powerful insecticide.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Dying After Repotting?

If your fiddle leaf fig is still drooping after repotting it may need some time to adjust to its new surroundings. Make sure the pot you chose is the right size for your fiddle leaf fig. Is the new soil and fertilizer good quality? Is your plant getting enough light and water?

If all else fails, consider taking a cutting from your fiddle leaf fig and propagating it in fresh soil.

How Long Does It Take for A Fiddle Leaf Fig to Perk Up?

So you’ve done the work of reviving a dying fiddle leaf fig. When can you expect to see results?

There’s no set time frame for a fiddle leaf fig to perk up. With patience and care, you should start noticing new growth and improvement over time. Younger, smaller fiddle leaf figs may recover more quickly than older, larger plants. The younger plants have fewer leaves to support and their smaller root systems can more easily adapt to changes in their environment.

If your fiddle leaf fig is only slightly stressed, it may only take a week or two for it to start looking better. However, if the plant is severely stressed or has significant leaf drop, it may take several months for it to recover.

Preventing a Fiddle Leaf Fig from Dying

To keep your fiddle leaf fig healthy and thriving, you need to take proper care of it. Here are some tips to prevent your fiddle leaf fig from dying.

Proper Watering and Drainage

Overwatering or underwatering your fiddle leaf fig can cause it to die. To avoid this, make sure you water your plant properly. Water your plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but not bone dry. Make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.

Adequate Sunlight and Humidity

Fiddle leaf figs need bright, indirect sunlight to grow properly. Place your plant near a window where it can get enough sunlight, but not direct sunlight. If your plant is not getting enough light, it may start to droop or lose leaves.

Fiddle leaf figs thrive in humid environments, so misting the leaves can help create a better environment for them.

Regular Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning your fiddle leaf fig can help it grow healthier and prevent it from dying. Trim any yellow or brown leaves and prune back any branches that are growing too long. This will help stimulate new growth and prevent your plant from becoming too top-heavy.

Provide Nutrients

If necessary, consider adding a root supplement to help revive and maintain the remaining leaves on the plant. This can give it an extra boost of nutrients. It’s important to follow the instructions on the product label. Overdosing can cause damage, so it’s best to start with small amounts and increase gradually if needed. Be sure to use a root supplement that is specifically designed for houseplants like fiddle leaf figs.

Monitoring for Pests and Diseases

Pests and diseases can quickly kill a fiddle leaf fig. Keep an eye out for any signs of pests, such as spider mites or mealybugs. If you notice any pests, treat your plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Also, monitor your plant for any signs of diseases, such as mildew or root rot. If you notice any signs of disease, take action immediately to prevent it from spreading.

If your fiddle leaf fig plant is showing signs of distress, it’s important to take action quickly. Signs of distress can include browning or yellowing leaves, wilting, drooping branches, and lack of new growth.

To determine if your plant is dying, look for signs of overwatering or underwatering, exposure to temperature extremes, too much or too little light, and pests or diseases.

If you find any of these issues present in your plant, take the necessary steps to address them right away. With proper care and attention, you can save a dying fiddle leaf fig tree and keep it healthy for years to come!

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