Why Are the Leaves of My Fiddle Leaf Fig Falling Off? - Plant Care Guide

The fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is a popular indoor plant known for its large, glossy leaves and dramatic presence. While these plants can make a stunning addition to any room, they can also be notoriously finicky, with issues such as leaf drop being a common problem for plant owners. When the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig start falling off, it can indicate that something is amiss with its care or environment.

Understanding the potential causes behind leaf drop in fiddle leaf figs is crucial for taking the right steps to fix the problem. In this article, we will discuss various factors that can lead to leaf loss, how to identify the cause, and what you can do to keep your fiddle leaf fig healthy and lush.

1. Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common causes of leaf drop in fiddle leaf figs. These plants prefer their soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and keeping the soil consistently wet can lead to root rot, a condition where the roots become waterlogged and start to decay. When root rot sets in, the plant is unable to absorb nutrients and water properly, leading to yellowing, browning, and eventually falling leaves.

Signs of Overwatering

• Yellow or brown spots on leaves: Overwatered fiddle leaf figs often have leaves that develop yellow or brown spots.
• Soggy soil: If the soil feels wet to the touch for several days after watering, it indicates overwatering.
• Mushy roots: Upon inspecting the roots, you may find that they are brown or black and feel mushy.

What to Do About Overwatering

• Allow the soil to dry out: Let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Fiddle leaf figs prefer moist, but not soggy, soil.
• Repot if necessary: If root rot has developed, consider repotting the plant in fresh soil. Use a well-draining potting mix to help prevent future overwatering.
• Check the pot's drainage: Make sure the pot has adequate drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Choose pots with drainage holes for better water management.

2. Underwatering

While overwatering is a frequent issue, underwatering can also cause fiddle leaf fig leaves to fall off. When the plant does not receive enough water, it will begin to shed leaves as a survival mechanism to conserve moisture. Underwatered fiddle leaf figs may show signs of leaf drop starting from the lower leaves and moving upward.

Signs of Underwatering

• Crispy or brittle leaves: In addition to falling off, underwatered leaves may feel dry, crispy, or brittle.
• Wrinkled or curled leaves: The leaves may appear wrinkled or curled, especially at the edges.
• Light, dry soil: If the soil is dry several inches below the surface, it indicates underwatering.

What to Do About Underwatering

• Water deeply: Give your fiddle leaf fig a thorough watering, allowing the water to reach the root zone. Let the excess water drain out. Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the base of the plant.
• Establish a watering schedule: Water your fiddle leaf fig regularly based on its needs and the season. During the growing season (spring and summer), water more frequently, and reduce watering during the winter.
• Monitor soil moisture: Use a moisture meter to keep track of the soil's moisture level and ensure the plant is not drying out too much between waterings.

3. Poor Drainage

Poor drainage can also contribute to leaf loss in fiddle leaf figs. When water cannot escape from the pot, it creates a damp environment that can lead to root rot and leaf drop.

Signs of Poor Drainage

• Water pools on the soil surface: If water sits on top of the soil for an extended period, it indicates poor drainage.
• Compact soil: If the soil feels dense or heavy and doesn't drain well, it may need to be replaced.
• Waterlogged roots: Roots that are brown or mushy can indicate poor drainage.

What to Do About Poor Drainage

• Repot the plant: Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating. Choose a potting mix for houseplants that provides good drainage.
• Improve soil aeration: Mix in materials like perlite or coarse sand to improve the soil's drainage. Add perlite to the soil to enhance aeration and prevent waterlogging.
• Use a layer of gravel: Adding a layer of gravel at the bottom of the pot can help facilitate drainage and prevent root rot.

4. Inadequate Light

Fiddle leaf figs thrive in bright, indirect light, and inadequate lighting can cause the plant to drop leaves. When the plant does not receive enough light, it struggles to photosynthesize effectively, which can lead to yellowing and leaf loss.

Signs of Inadequate Light

• Yellowing leaves: Leaves may turn yellow and fall off when the plant does not receive enough light.
• Slow growth: The plant may exhibit stunted growth or stop producing new leaves.
• Leaning towards light sources: If the plant is leaning or growing towards a light source, it may be an indication of insufficient light.

What to Do About Inadequate Light

• Move the plant to a brighter spot: Place the fiddle leaf fig in a location where it can receive bright, indirect sunlight. Use grow lights to supplement natural light if necessary.
• Rotate the plant regularly: Rotating the pot every few weeks ensures that all sides of the plant receive equal light, preventing uneven growth.
• Avoid direct sunlight: While bright light is essential, direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Make sure the light is filtered or indirect.

5. Temperature Stress

Fiddle leaf figs are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, and exposure to extreme temperatures can lead to leaf drop. Sudden changes in temperature, cold drafts, or hot air can stress the plant and cause the leaves to fall off.

Signs of Temperature Stress

• Yellow or brown leaf tips: Temperature extremes can cause the tips of the leaves to turn yellow or brown before falling off.
• Sudden leaf drop: The plant may drop leaves without any other visible symptoms.
• Wilting: The fiddle leaf fig may wilt or droop if exposed to high heat.

What to Do About Temperature Stress

• Maintain a stable temperature: Keep the room temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) for optimal growth. Use a digital thermometer to monitor temperature around your plant.
• Avoid placing the plant near heat sources or drafts: Make sure the fiddle leaf fig is not near heaters, air conditioners, or drafty windows.
• Gradually acclimate the plant to new conditions: If you need to move the plant to a different location, do so gradually to allow it to adjust to the temperature change.

6. Pest Infestation

Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can cause fiddle leaf fig leaves to fall off. These pests feed on the plant's sap, weakening it and leading to leaf drop.

Signs of Pest Infestation

• Sticky residue on the leaves: This can indicate the presence of pests such as aphids or mealybugs.
• Webbing: Tiny webs on the undersides of leaves may indicate spider mites.
• Visible insects: You may see small pests crawling on the leaves or stems.

What to Do About Pest Infestation

• Wipe down the leaves: Use a damp cloth to remove any visible pests. Get a microfiber cloth for cleaning plant leaves.
• Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil: Treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to eliminate pests. Repeat the treatment as necessary.
• Quarantine the affected plant: If you have other houseplants, isolate the infested fiddle leaf fig to prevent the pests from spreading.

7. Nutrient Deficiency

A lack of essential nutrients can also cause leaf drop in fiddle leaf figs. When the plant does not receive enough nitrogen, potassium, or magnesium, it can lead to discoloration and falling leaves.

Signs of Nutrient Deficiency

• Yellowing leaves: Leaves may turn yellow due to a lack of nutrients.
• Slow growth: The plant may not produce new leaves or grow as quickly.
• Weak, faded leaves: The leaves may appear pale or have a washed-out appearance.

What to Do About Nutrient Deficiency

• Fertilize the plant: Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients. Apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Flush the soil: If you suspect a buildup of salts from previous fertilization, flush the soil with water to remove excess salts before fertilizing again.
• Repot the plant in nutrient-rich soil: When repotting, use a potting mix that contains added nutrients to support growth.

8. Transplant Shock

Transplant shock can occur when a fiddle leaf fig is repotted or moved to a new location. The stress from being moved or having its roots disturbed can cause the plant to shed leaves.

Signs of Transplant Shock

• Leaf drop shortly after repotting: The plant may start to lose leaves a few days after being moved or repotted.
• Drooping or wilting leaves: The plant may appear droopy during the recovery period.
• Slow recovery: It may take a few weeks for the plant to bounce back.

What to Do About Transplant Shock

• Water lightly after repotting: Avoid overwatering after transplanting. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
• Place the plant in a stable environment: Keep the fiddle leaf fig in a consistent location with stable temperature and light levels.
• Use a root stimulator: Consider applying a root stimulator to help the plant recover and promote healthy root growth.

9. Root Rot

Root rot occurs when the roots of a fiddle leaf fig become waterlogged and start to decay. This can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or a combination of both. When root rot is present, the plant's ability to absorb nutrients and water is compromised, leading to leaf drop.

Signs of Root Rot

• Mushy or black roots: Healthy roots are firm and white, while rotten roots appear black or brown and feel mushy.
• Foul smell from the soil: A musty or foul odor may come from the soil due to decaying roots.
• Yellowing or browning leaves: The plant may show signs of leaf discoloration in addition to leaf drop.

What to Do About Root Rot

• Trim affected roots: Remove any black or mushy roots using sterilized pruning scissors.
• Repot the plant in fresh soil: Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes.
• Water sparingly after repotting: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent further rot.

10. Chemical Sensitivity

Exposure to chemicals in tap water, cleaning products, or fertilizers can cause fiddle leaf fig leaves to fall off. Some chemicals can build up in the soil over time, leading to leaf drop and other issues.

Signs of Chemical Sensitivity

• Browning leaf edges: The edges of the leaves may turn brown and crispy.
• Stunted growth: The plant may not grow as vigorously if exposed to harsh chemicals.
• Yellowing leaves: Chemicals can cause the leaves to turn yellow.

What to Do About Chemical Sensitivity

• Use filtered or distilled water: Avoid using tap water that contains chlorine, fluoride, or other chemicals. Buy distilled water to water your plants.
• Rinse the soil: If you suspect chemical buildup, flush the soil with water to remove any harmful residues.
• Fertilize sparingly: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and follow the recommended dosage.

By understanding the various factors that can cause fiddle leaf fig leaves to fall off, you can take the necessary steps to address the issue and restore your plant to its healthy, vibrant state. Proper care and attention will help you enjoy the beauty of your fiddle leaf fig for years to come.