Root Rot in Fiddle Leaf Fig
The fiddle leaf fig features huge, violin-shaped leaves and is a statement plant for bright rooms
Fiddle Leaf Fig care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to root rot in Fiddle Leaf Fig. Check each one as a potential cause.
Symptoms to look for in Fiddle Leaf Fig
Leaves yellow, brown, and drop even with seemingly adequate care, and roots turn brown to black and mushy when checked.
Common causes in Fiddle Leaf Fig
Fiddle Leaf Fig's care guide calls for weekly watering with only the top inch drying out — going beyond this into consistently soggy soil, or using a pot without drainage, quickly leads to root rot on this moisture-sensitive plant.
How to diagnose root rot in Fiddle Leaf Fig
Remove plant from pot. Healthy roots are white/tan and firm. Rotted roots are brown/black and mushy.
How to treat root rot in Fiddle Leaf Fig
Remove the plant, trim away all mushy roots with a sterilised blade, and repot into fresh, well-draining mix. Reduce watering frequency until new growth confirms recovery.
Preventing root rot in Fiddle Leaf Fig
Water weekly, allowing only the top inch of soil to dry, use a well-draining mix, and ensure the pot has drainage holes.