Plant Care

How to Repot a Fiddle Leaf Fig (Step-by-Step Guide)

Last updated: November 2, 2025

Repotting a fiddle leaf fig Ficus lyrata properly prevents root rot, promotes healthy growth, and extends your plant's lifespan for decades.

DDr. Sarah Green

November 2, 2025

1 views

Fiddle leaf fig with healthy white root system being removed from pot for repotting — — Image © PlantReference.org 2025

TL;DR

Repot your fiddle leaf fig Ficus lyrata every 2-3 years in spring when roots emerge from drainage holes or growth slows. Choose a pot 2 inches larger in diameter, use fast-draining soil with perlite, and water thoroughly after repotting. The key to success is handling roots gently and avoiding over-potting, which leads to waterlogged soil and root rot.

Product Recommendations

Perfect Plants Fiddle Leaf Fig Soil (8QT)

($18-25)— Premium professional blend prevents root rot

Perfect Plants Fiddle Leaf Fig Soil Mix Professional Blend 8 Quarts

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

This professional-grade potting mix combines coconut coir, pine bark fines, perlite, coarse sand, and pre-mixed fertilizer to create optimal growing conditions for fiddle leaf figs. The lightweight formula provides excellent drainage while retaining adequate moisture—replicating the fast-draining yet moisture-retentive loamy soil found in West African rainforests. Enhanced with slow-release fiddle leaf fig fertilizer that feeds your plant for six months post-repotting. The mix prevents soil compaction and root rot while promoting healthy root development. Bag includes enough soil for repotting plants in 10-14 inch diameter pots.

Price: $18.99-$24.99

rePotme Fig and Ficus Imperial Potting Mix

($16-22)— Handmade specialty mix from USA

rePotme Fig and Ficus Imperial Potting Soil Mix

https://www.repotme.com/products/fig-and-ficus-imperial-potting-soil-mix

Handcrafted in small batches using premium imported coir from Sri Lanka, medium grade sponge rock for superior drainage, small and medium Monterey pine bark chunks, and hardwood charcoal for odor control and root health. This specialty blend is specifically formulated for the unique requirements of Ficus species, providing free-draining conditions while maintaining nutrient availability. The pine bark creates air pockets that prevent compaction even after months of use, while the charcoal absorbs excess salts and impurities. Made fresh to order in the USA and shipped within days of production. Available in multiple sizes for different pot dimensions.

Price: $16.00-$22.00

LA JOLIE MUSE Large Woven Seagrass Basket Planter

($25-40)— Sustainable natural aesthetic

LA JOLIE MUSE Large Woven Seagrass Basket Indoor Plant Pot with Handles

https://www.amazon.com/JOLIE-MUSE-Woven-Seagrass-Basket/dp/B07VWMX1X1

Handwoven from sustainable seagrass, this natural basket serves as an elegant cachepot that conceals plastic nursery pots or provides decorative cover for ceramic planters. Available in multiple sizes (10, 12, and 15 inch diameter options), the basket complements fiddle leaf fig foliage with its neutral, peaceful aesthetic that fits modern, bohemian, or traditional decor. Features reinforced handles for easy transportation and a waterproof liner to protect floors from moisture. The natural fiber texture creates visual interest without competing with your plant's statement leaves. Lightweight construction makes it easy to move large plants for cleaning or seasonal placement adjustments.

Price: $25.99-$39.99

Fiskars Micro-Tip Pruning Shears (Model 399241-1002)

($12-18)— Precision cuts prevent root damage

Fiskars Micro-Tip Pruning Snips Garden Scissors Model 399241-1002

https://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-399241-1002-Micro-Tip-Pruning-Shears/dp/B00004SD76

Precision-ground stainless steel blades make clean cuts through roots without crushing or tearing tissue—critical for preventing infection sites during repotting. The micro-tip design allows access into tight spaces at the base of root balls where circling roots need severing. Non-stick blade coating prevents sap and soil buildup, while easy-open spring action reduces hand fatigue during extended pruning sessions. Blades are dishwasher safe for thorough sterilization between uses, preventing disease transmission. Ergonomic handles with comfortable grip work well for both right and left-handed users. Ideal for precision work when inspecting and pruning fiddle leaf fig roots during repotting.

Price: $12.47-$17.99

XLUX Soil Moisture Meter (Model T10)

($8-12)— No batteries required for instant readings

XLUX Soil Moisture Sensor Meter Model T10 Soil Water Monitor

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

Analog moisture meter with color-coded dial (Dry/OK/Wet zones) provides instant soil moisture readings without batteries or complicated calibration. Dual-needle detection technology measures moisture levels at root zone depth—simply insert probe 2-4 inches into soil for accurate readings. Large easy-to-read gauge face allows quick assessment of when to water after repotting when soil moisture patterns differ from previous container. Particularly useful during the first 4-6 weeks post-repot when watering frequency must be adjusted for fresh soil volume. Durable metal probe withstands repeated use and cleans easily. An essential tool for preventing overwatering in newly repotted plants.

Price: $8.99-$11.99

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you repot a fiddle leaf fig?

Repot your fiddle leaf fig every 2-3 years or when roots emerge from drainage holes and circle the soil surface. During peak growing season, healthy plants produce 1-2 feet of new growth annually, which means the root system expands proportionally. Root-bound conditions restrict water and nutrient uptake, leading to slowed growth and increased susceptibility to stress. Spring (March through May) provides optimal timing when the plant enters active growth and can quickly establish roots in fresh soil.

What is the best time of year to repot a fiddle leaf fig?

Early spring (March through May) is the best time to repot fiddle leaf figs because the plant enters its active growth phase when it naturally produces new leaves every 4-6 weeks. Spring repotting gives your plant the entire growing season to establish roots in fresh soil and recover from transplant stress. Avoid repotting during fall and winter dormancy (October through February) when root growth slows dramatically—dormant plants lack the energy reserves to handle the stress of transplanting and take 3-4 months to recover instead of 4-6 weeks.

Can you repot a fiddle leaf fig in the same size pot?

Yes, you can repot in the same size pot if root pruning—but only when the plant is not root-bound. If roots have filled the pot, you must move to a larger container (2 inches/5 cm greater diameter). Same-size repotting works when refreshing soil that has broken down and lost drainage capacity after 2-3 years, even if roots haven't outgrown the pot. Remove the root ball, prune away 25-30% of the outer root mass with sterilized shears, then replant with fresh soil mix. This technique is common for maintaining large plants at manageable sizes.

Should you water a fiddle leaf fig before or after repotting?

Water thoroughly 24 hours before repotting and again immediately after repotting. Pre-watering hydrates roots and makes them more flexible, reducing breakage during handling. The moist soil holds together better, preventing the root ball from falling apart. Post-repotting watering settles fresh soil, eliminates air pockets, and initiates contact between roots and new soil particles—essential for the plant to begin absorbing water and nutrients. After the initial post-repot watering, wait until the top 50-75% of soil dries before watering again since fresh soil holds more moisture than compacted old soil.

Why is my fiddle leaf fig dropping leaves after repotting?

Mild leaf drop (2-4 lower leaves) is normal transplant shock as the plant adjusts to new soil and temporarily cannot support its full leaf mass while establishing new roots. This typically resolves within 2-3 weeks as roots grow into fresh soil. However, excessive leaf drop (more than 5-6 leaves) or leaves falling from upper portions indicates problems: overwatering in oversized pot, root damage during repotting, or burying the trunk too deep. Monitor soil moisture carefully and avoid watering until the top 2-3 inches feel dry. New growth should appear within 4-6 weeks if the plant is recovering successfully.

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#fiddle leaf fig #repotting #houseplant care #indoor plants #root care #plant maintenance #transplanting #pot size #potting soil #root rot prevention

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.