Do you own a Ficus lyrata, also known as the fiddle-leaf fig? If so, you’re likely familiar with its elegant look that adds an exotic beauty to any living space. But keeping Ficus rates healthy isn’t always easy—among other things, watering them can be tricky because they do not tolerate too much or too little water equally well.
To keep your beloved fiddle-leaf fig in perfect health, we have put together this guide on how often you should water it! Read on to find out the answers and more expert tips on how to take proper care of your fascinating Ficus lyrata.
How do you know when a ficus Lyrata needs water?
When it comes to knowing when your ficus Lyrata needs water, careful observation is key. You’ll want to keep an eye on the leaves of the plant, as they are a great indicator. If they start drooping and feeling limp to the touch, that’s usually a sign that it’s time to water your ficus.
Additionally, you can lightly press your finger into the soil – if it feels dry in comparison to when you had watered last, then you know it’s time for a drink – but not too much! Overwatering a ficus can lead to root rot and other issues, so be sure to remain mindful of how much water you give them.
How much water does a fiddle leaf Ficus need?
Fiddle leaf Ficus, one of the most attractive indoor plants, needs water on a regular basis to keep it healthy. The amount of water each plant requires can vary depending on several factors such as the type of soil and type of container used. In general, allow the soil to dry out between watering and adjust your routine accordingly once you’ve properly established a watering schedule.
Monitor the plant’s moisture in order to keep the soil from becoming extremely dry. When watering, make sure that you are watering deeply – this will ensure that all parts of the root system get watered equally. Lastly, keep an eye out for wilting leaves and stems; this is an indication that your Ficus needs more water or perhaps it is over-watered.
Can I water my Fiddle Leaf Fig every 2 weeks?
Watering your Fiddle Leaf Fig every two weeks can be tricky. If you overwater it, the soil will stay wet and become soggy, leading to root rot; if you underwater it, the leaves can dry out and turn brown from lack of moisture. So how do you figure out when to water it?
Start by checking the top inch of soil for dryness – if it’s dry, time to water! You should also aim for a consistent watering schedule so that your Fiddle Leaf Fig knows what to expect. Keep in mind because Fiddle Leafs love warmth, they tend to need more frequent watering during those hot summer days. With proper attention, your Fiddle Leaf Fig will thrive!
How do I know if my fiddle leaf is overwatered?
Knowing when your fiddle leaf is overwatered can be tricky, as there are a few signs that you can look out for. Yellowing and browning of leaves is the most common sign that a fiddle leaf has been given too much water. Additionally, if some of the lower leaves begin to droop or wilt, it could indicate that the soil is either too wet or nutrient deficiencies exist from overwatering.
Also note that if you are watering the plant on a regular schedule and not checking the dampness of the soil beforehand, you may inadvertently give your fiddle leaf too much water. The best way to prevent overwatering is to stick your finger into the soil around an inch deep and check for moisture there before deciding to water.
Should I spray my fiddle leaf fig with water?
Spraying water on your fiddle leaf fig can be a great way to give it the moisture and humidity it needs to thrive. While every plant is different and there can be no single “correct” answer, giving your fiddle leaf fig a light spray now and then can do wonders to boost its health.
Doing this especially when the air temperature starts getting too hot or too cold is a great idea as it will help the plant keep an even temperate and stay healthy. Make sure that you don’t spray too much, however, as overwatering can harm your plant more than underwatering. All in all, a gentle misting of water once in a while could be just what your fiddle leaf fig needs!
The Bottom Line
So there you have it – your handy guide to when and how much to water your Ficus lyrata. Remember, this plant is quite hardy and prefers to be slightly under-watered rather than over-watered. If you give it the right amount of water on the right schedule, your Ficus lyrata will reward you with lush, green foliage for years to come.
Don’t forget that in addition to providing adequate water, regular trimming can also help control this plant’s size and shape. And if possible, try placing it near a window where it can receive indirect sunlight as well as filtered natural light. Proper care of your Ficus lyrata is a must – but with just a little bit of regular tending, you’ll see beautiful results!
