Plant Care

Fiddle Leaf Fig Leaves Dropping? Here's Why (+ Fixes)

Last updated: November 1, 2025

Your fiddle leaf fig Ficus lyrata is dropping leaves because of environmental shock, watering issues, or pest problems—here's how to diagnose and fix it fast.

DDr. Sarah Green

November 1, 2025

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Fiddle leaf fig with fallen leaves on floor showing common leaf drop problem — — Image © PlantReference.org 2025

TL;DR

Your fiddle leaf fig is dropping leaves because of environmental shock (temperature changes, moving the plant, drafts), watering problems (overwatering or underwatering), or pest infestations. Normal leaf drop is 1-2 lower leaves per year—anything more means there's a problem. Fix it by stabilizing temperature at 65-75°F (18-24°C), checking soil moisture before watering, and inspecting for pests immediately.

Product Recommendations

XLUX Soil Moisture Meter Model T10

($8-12)— Eliminates watering guesswork with instant readings

XLUX Soil Moisture Meter T10 Bonsai Houseplant Sensor

https://www.amazon.com/XLUX-Moisture-Sensor-Tester-Outdoor/dp/B0BTM794R7

This analog moisture meter features a large easy-to-read dial with color-coded zones (Dry/OK/Wet) that shows soil moisture levels instantly. The dual-needle detection technology provides accurate readings without batteries—simply insert the 7-inch (18 cm) probe 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) into soil around your fiddle leaf fig's root zone. Perfect for preventing both overwatering and underwatering that causes leaf drop. The battery-free design means it lasts indefinitely, and the simple operation works for beginners and experts alike. Insert near the pot edge at a 45-degree angle to avoid root damage.

Price: $8.00-$12.00

Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Food 3-1-2 NPK Liquid Fertilizer

($15-20)— Gentle formula prevents nutrient deficiency leaf drop

Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Food Urea-Free Liquid Fertilizer (8 oz)

https://www.amazon.com/Fiddle-Leaf-Plant-Food-Ficus-Lyrata/dp/B07BG98GQD

Specially formulated 3-1-2 NPR ratio designed specifically for Ficus lyrata with three forms of nitrogen for extended nutrition throughout the growing season. The urea-free formula prevents leaf burn that can trigger stress-related leaf drop. This liquid concentrate includes calcium to strengthen cell walls and prevent brown spots, plus it supports photosynthesis and root development simultaneously. Safe for weekly application during spring and summer—dilute to half-strength for gentler feeding. One 8-ounce bottle provides 6-12 months of nutrition depending on your plant's size. Only fertilize plants that aren't currently dropping leaves; wait until recovery is complete before resuming feeding schedule.

Price: $15.00-$20.00

Perfect Plants Fiddle Leaf Fig Soil Mix 8QT

($18-25)— Professional fast-draining blend prevents root rot

Perfect Plants Fiddle Leaf Fig Professional Potting Soil Mix 8 Quarts

https://www.amazon.com/Fiddle-Perfect-Plants-8QTS-Professional-Blend/dp/B07QLXL2M2

Premium professional potting mix specifically designed for Ficus lyrata with coconut coir, aged pine bark, perlite, and coarse sand that creates ideal drainage while retaining appropriate moisture levels. The lightweight formula prevents soil compaction that causes root rot and leaf drop. Pre-mixed with slow-release fiddle leaf fig fertilizer providing 6 months of baseline nutrition. This blend prevents the soggy conditions that trigger massive leaf loss while ensuring roots get adequate oxygen and water simultaneously. Perfect for repotting stressed plants experiencing leaf drop from overwatering. The 8-quart bag handles one large plant (10-14 inch or 25-35 cm pot) or multiple smaller specimens.

Price: $18.00-$25.00

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my fiddle leaf fig dropping leaves?

Your fiddle leaf fig is dropping leaves because of environmental shock, watering problems, temperature extremes, or pest infestations. Environmental shock from moving the plant, repotting, or seasonal changes is the most common cause. The plant responds to stress by shedding leaves to conserve resources. Identify what changed in the past 1-2 weeks before the leaf drop started. Stabilize conditions immediately by maintaining temperature at 65-75°F (18-24°C), checking soil moisture before watering, and keeping the plant in one location without further changes.

How often should I water my fiddle leaf fig?

Water your fiddle leaf fig when the top 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) of soil are completely dry, which typically occurs every 7-10 days during the growing season. The exact frequency depends on your home's humidity, temperature, and light levels—there's no universal schedule. Use your finger or a moisture meter to check soil moisture before each watering. Water thoroughly until water runs from drainage holes, then empty the saucer. In winter, reduce watering frequency to every 10-14 days as growth slows and soil dries more slowly in cooler temperatures.

How much light does a fiddle leaf fig need?

Fiddle leaf figs need 6-8 hours of bright indirect light daily for healthy growth and to prevent stress-related leaf drop. Place your plant directly in front of a window (not across the room) with sheer curtains to filter intense direct sun if needed. East-facing windows provide gentle morning sun ideal for these plants. South and west-facing windows work with curtain protection from hot afternoon rays. Insufficient light causes weak growth, yellowing, and eventual leaf drop. Supplement with a grow light if natural light is limited, especially during winter months when daylight hours decrease significantly.

Why does my fiddle leaf fig have brown spots?

Brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves indicate overwatering and root rot when spots appear dark brown or black in the center of leaves, or underwatering when spots are tan and crispy at leaf edges. Check soil moisture 3 inches (7 cm) deep to diagnose. For overwatering, let soil dry out significantly and consider repotting if roots are brown and mushy. For underwatering, water thoroughly when the top 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) of soil are dry. Small red-brown spots on new leaves indicate edema from inconsistent watering—establish a regular schedule based on soil moisture rather than calendar days.

Can fiddle leaf figs tolerate direct sunlight?

Fiddle leaf figs can tolerate gentle morning direct sun from east-facing windows but cannot tolerate intense afternoon direct sun from south or west exposures. Direct afternoon sun causes sunburn—light brown or bleached patches on upper leaves with yellow halos. In their native habitat, fiddle leaf figs grow under forest canopy receiving filtered light. Recreate this with bright indirect light by placing near windows with sheer curtains or positioning 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) from unobstructed windows. If moving to a sunnier location, acclimate gradually over 2-3 weeks to prevent shock and leaf drop.

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Tagged with

#fiddle leaf fig #leaf drop #ficus lyrata #plant problems #houseplant care #overwatering #underwatering #plant troubleshooting #environmental shock #fiddle leaf fig stress

Written By

Dr. Sarah Green

Sarah earned her doctorate in plant biology and spent time working in botanical garden education before transitioning to freelance writing and consulting. Now based in Portland, Oregon, she teaches plant identification workshops at local community centers and maintains a modest collection of over 60 houseplants in her small apartment. Sarah specializes in helping beginners understand plant science without the jargon—her approach focuses on practical observation over theory. She's killed her fair share of fiddle leaf figs and finally cracked the code on keeping them alive.