What to Do with Brown Leaves on a Fiddle Leaf Fig

Brown leaves on a fiddle leaf fig can be a cause for concern as they indicate potential issues with the plant’s health. Brown spots on the leaves can be caused by various factors, including overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiency, pests and diseases, root rot, bacterial infection, and dryness. In this article, we will explore each of these causes in detail and provide expert advice on how to address them.

Overwatering

Overwatering is a common cause of brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves. When the plant is consistently exposed to excess water, the roots can develop rot, leading to brown and wilting leaves. To treat overwatering, follow these steps:

Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering again.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating.
Use a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for fiddle leaf figs.
Stick to a consistent watering routine, watering the plant when the soil is slightly dry.

Underwatering

Underwatering can also cause brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves. When the plant doesn’t receive enough water, it becomes stressed and the leaves may turn brown and dry. To address underwatering, follow these steps:

Make sure the top four inches of soil are moisturized during watering.
Increase ambient humidity by misting the leaves or using a humidifier.
Stick to a consistent watering schedule to provide adequate hydration for your fiddle leaf fig.

Nutrient Deficiency

Nutrient deficiency, particularly a lack of phosphorus, can result in brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves. To address nutrient deficiencies, follow these steps:

Use a liquid fiddle leaf fig plant food with a balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Consider using a plant multivitamin to provide the necessary micronutrients.
Follow the recommended dosage and application instructions on the plant food and multivitamin packaging.

Pests and Diseases

Pests and diseases, such as mealy bugs, spider mites, aphids, and scales, can cause brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves. To treat pests and diseases, follow these steps:

Isolate the affected plant to prevent the spread of pests or diseases.
Remove infected or dead leaves carefully.
Use organic pest control or fungicide specifically formulated for fiddle leaf figs.
Incorporate leaf shine spray to improve the plant’s overall health and appearance.

Root Rot

Root rot, caused by overwatering, fungal infections, or poor soil conditions, can lead to brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves. To treat root rot, follow these steps:

Carefully inspect the root system for any signs of damage or decay.
Trim affected roots using clean, sterilized pruning tools.
Treat cut roots with a root supplement or fungicide.
Repot the plant using fresh, well-draining soil.
Resume a proper watering schedule to prevent future overwatering.

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections can cause brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves. To prevent bacterial infections and treat existing ones, follow these steps:

Maintain a clean and well-ventilated environment for your plant.
Isolate affected plants to prevent the spread of infection.
Use organic bactericide specifically formulated for fiddle leaf figs.
Incorporate root supplements, plant probiotics, and multivitamins into your watering routine.

Dryness

Dryness, caused by low humidity or heat stress, can result in brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves. To prevent dryness-related brown spots, follow these steps:

Maintain humidity levels between 30-50% by misting the leaves or using a humidifier.
Place the plant in a location with indirect bright light.
Avoid placing the plant near heat sources or drafts that can dry outthe air around the tree.

Conclusion

Brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves can be a sign of various underlying issues. By identifying the cause of the brown spots and taking appropriate action, you can restore the health and beauty of your fiddle leaf fig. Remember to adjust your watering routine, provide the necessary nutrients, address pests and diseases, treat root rot or bacterial infections, and maintain proper humidity levels. With proper care, your fiddle leaf fig will thrive and showcase its lush green leaves once again.

Sources:

“5 Reasons Why Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Leaves Are Turning Brown” from The Spruce (https://www.thespruce.com/fiddle-leaf-fig-leaves-turning-brown-6503953)
“Brown Spots on Fiddle Leaf Fig Leaves” from Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant (https://fiddleleaffigplant.com/brown-spots-on-fiddle-leaf-fig-leaves-2/)
“What Do Brown Spots on a Fiddle Leaf Fig Mean?” from Easy Plant (https://easyplant.com/blog/brown-spots-on-fiddle-leaf-fig)

FAQs

Why are the leaves on my fiddle leaf fig turning brown?

Brown leaves on a fiddle leaf fig can be caused by various factors, including overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiency, pests and diseases, root rot, bacterial infection, and dryness. Identifying the specific cause is crucial in addressing the issue.

How do I know if I am overwatering or underwatering my fiddle leaf fig?

To determine if you are overwatering or underwatering your fiddle leaf fig, check the moisture level of the soil. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil—if it feels dry, it may be underwatered. If the soil feels consistently wet or soggy, it indicates overwatering. Adjust your watering routine accordingly.

Can nutrient deficiency cause brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves?

Yes, nutrient deficiency, particularly a lack of phosphorus, can result in brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves. To address nutrient deficiencies, use a balanced liquid plant food specifically formulated for fiddle leaf figs and consider using a plant multivitamin to provide the necessary micronutrients.

How can I prevent pests and diseases from causing brown spots on my fiddle leaf fig?

To prevent pests and diseases from causing brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves, maintain a clean and well-ventilated environment for your plant. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests and promptly treat any infestations with organic pest control methods. Isolating affected plants can prevent the spread of pests and diseases.

What should I do if my fiddle leaf fig has root rot?

If your fiddle leaf fig has root rot, it is essential to address it promptly. Carefully inspect the root system for signs of damage or decay. Trim affected roots, apply a root supplement or fungicide, and repot the plant using fresh, well-draining soil. Adjust your watering routine to prevent future overwatering.

How can I treat bacterial infections causing brown spots on my fiddle leaf fig?

To treat bacterial infections causing brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves, maintain a clean and well-ventilated environment. Isolate affected plants to prevent the spread of infection. Use organic bactericide specifically formulated for fiddle leaf figs. Additionally, incorporate root supplements, plant probiotics, and multivitamins into your watering routine to boost the plant’s immune system.

Can low humidity cause brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves?

Yes, low humidity can cause brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves. To prevent dryness-related brown spots, maintain humidity levels between 30-50% by misting the leaves, using a humidifier, or placing a tray of water near the plant. Avoid placing the plant near heat sources or drafts that can dry out the air around the tree.

Can I save my fiddle leaf fig if the leaves have turned completely brown?

If the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig have turned completely brown, it may be challenging to revive them. However, you can still save the plant by focusing on improving its overall health. Trim off the completely brown leaves, provide optimal care in terms of watering, lighting, and nutrition, and monitor the growth of new leaves. With proper care, the plant can recover and develop healthy foliage.