Plant Care

Fiddle Leaf Fig Winter Care (Keep Yours Thriving)

Last updated: November 15, 2025

Winter care adjustments keep your fiddle leaf fig healthy through cold months with proper humidity, lighting, and watering changes.

AAmanda Foster

November 15, 2025

Fiddle leaf fig thriving in bright winter light near frosted window with proper winter care setup — — Image © PlantReference.org 2026

TL;DR

Winter fiddle leaf fig care requires three key adjustments: increase humidity to 40-50% with humidifiers, supplement light with grow lights during short days, and reduce watering frequency as growth slows. Move plants away from heating vents and cold windows, maintain temperatures 65-70°F (18-21°C), and stop fertilizing from October through February during dormancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water my fiddle leaf fig in winter?

Water every 14-21 days during winter, compared to summer's 7-10 day schedule. Always check soil moisture 2-3 inches deep before watering—the soil should feel completely dry at this depth. Winter's dormancy period means your plant uses 50-70% less water, making overwatering the leading cause of winter plant problems. Use a moisture meter for accuracy and water thoroughly until drainage occurs, emptying excess water within 30 minutes.

Do fiddle leaf figs need grow lights in winter?

Yes, most fiddle leaf figs benefit from grow lights during winter months when natural daylight drops below 6 hours daily. LED grow lights positioned 12-18 inches above the plant and run 6-8 hours daily supplement natural light effectively. Signs your plant needs supplemental lighting include smaller new leaves, increased spacing between leaves, heavy leaning toward windows, and loss of vibrant green color. South-facing windows may provide adequate light, but north-facing windows almost always require supplementation.

Should I stop fertilizing my fiddle leaf fig in winter?

Completely stop fertilizing from October through February. During dormancy, your plant cannot process nutrients efficiently, causing fertilizer buildup that can burn roots and alter soil pH. Excess nutrients often cause brown leaf edges and yellowing despite proper watering. Flush soil monthly with plain water to prevent salt accumulation. Resume feeding in late February at half-strength when new growth appears, gradually returning to normal fertilizer schedules by April.

Why is my fiddle leaf fig dropping more leaves in winter?

Normal winter leaf drop involves 1-2 older, lower leaves monthly, but excessive dropping usually indicates temperature fluctuations, overwatering, or low humidity. Heating vents create hot air blasts reaching 90-100°F, while cold windows can be 10-15°F cooler than room temperature. Move plants 6+ feet from heat sources and 3-4 feet from cold windows during freezing weather. Reduce watering frequency and maintain 45-50% humidity with humidifiers. Consistent conditions typically stop excessive dropping within 2-3 weeks.

What humidity level do fiddle leaf figs need in winter?

Maintain 45-50% humidity during winter months when indoor air often drops to 20-30% due to heating systems. Use humidifiers, group plants together, or place pebble trays near (not under) plants. Monitor with digital hygrometers for accuracy. Avoid misting leaves in winter as cool, low-light conditions promote fungal growth. Brown crispy leaf edges are the primary sign of insufficient humidity, typically occurring when levels drop below 35% for extended periods.

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Tagged with

#fiddle leaf fig #winter care #indoor plants #houseplant care #plant dormancy #humidity #grow lights #seasonal care #plant problems #ficus lyrata

Written By

Amanda Foster

Amanda came to gardening through an unexpected route—after developing chronic pain from rheumatoid arthritis in her late 20s, she started researching adaptive gardening techniques that would allow her to continue growing plants without aggravating her condition. Now based in Minneapolis, she writes about accessible gardening, raised bed designs for people with mobility challenges, and ergonomic tools that reduce strain. Amanda completed a certificate in sustainable urban agriculture and volunteers with a nonprofit that builds accessible community gardens. She grows vegetables, herbs, and flowers in waist-high raised beds she designed herself. Her writing focuses on practical solutions that work for real people with real limitations—whether that's arthritis, limited mobility, or just a bad back.