Fiddle leaf figs have been the hottest plant for several years now, but just because they’re a huge staple in home decor, doesn’t mean they are easy to grow. In fact, I think Fiddle leaf figs are often the trickiest houseplant to care for! Not only are they finicky when it comes to the right amount of water, but they are prone to some pretty tricky pests and diseases, too. Here’s how to treat fiddle leaf fig pests and diseases–all-natural, too!
Dropping Leaves Left And Right
If your fiddle leaf fig is dropping leaves left and right, it might be a symptom of a bacterial disease. When houseplants (really, of any kind) begin to drop several leaves, and fast, it’s often a sign of overwatering.
If your fiddle leaf fig is dropping leaves, first check to see that it isn’t receiving a draft. If your plant is near a vent, it’s best to move it elsewhere. Next, stick your finger into the soil to determine water levels. If the soil is soggy, your plant is likely dying from root rot. Use this guide to save it.
Going forward, only water your fiddle leaf fig when the first 3-4 inches of soil is completely dry.
Brown Spots On The Leaves
There are a few reasons why brown spots might be appearing on the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig.
The first is overwatering. To rule out overwatering, lift your plant out of its pot and inspect the leaves. Are they smelly and rotting away? If so, your plant is dying from root rot. This guide can help you save it.
The second cause is bacterial infection. Commonly, a sign of a bacterial infection is brown and yellow spots on the leaves. Bacterial leaf spots are usually closer together (and even slightly reddish) while overwatering spots are big brown patches.
If the edges of your leaves are beginning to turn brown and curl, it might be a sign of underwatering. Water when the first 3-4 inches of soil feels dry and mist leaves regularly for humidity. This will help with the curling of the leaves.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are the bane of my existence and they are one of the most common fiddle leaf fig pests and diseases. If your plant leaves are spotted and discolored, it might not be a result of watering, but rather Spider Mites. Examine the leaves and look for any small spider webs. If you can find webbing, your plant is likely infected. To treat, take the plant to the shower and give it a good hose down. Next, keep humidity levels high (spider mites do not thrive in humid areas) and spray the affected areas regularly with Neem Oil. Neem oil is a substance that is nontoxic to houseplants but can kill just about any kind of insect out there.
Gnats
Gnats on any houseplant are bad news, purely because they are just so stinking annoying. Gnats often show up when there’s wet soil, so the best cause of action is to let your soil dry out. Once dried, all of the larvae and eggs will die. Of course, if you are looking for more of an immediate fix, I recommend sprinkling diatomaceous earth in your soil. This article of mine will help give you any additional information.
Whiteflies
There’s nothing I hate more than whiteflies on a houseplant, particularly when they are after my precious fiddle leaf fig! To get rid of whiteflies on a fiddle leaf fig, take it to the shower and give it weekly hose downs. Additionally, spray the leaves and the soil with a Neem Oil spray, this will kill all eggs and larvae while leaving your tree totally healthy and completely intact.
