Fiddle leaf or Ficus lyrata is a popular indoor plant that originated from western Africa. It is renowned for its big, shiny, violin-shaped leaves that can grow up to 18 inches long and 12 inches wide. The fiddle fig plant may grow up to 50 feet tall in its natural environment, but as a houseplant, it typically reaches a height of 6 feet or less.
Fiddle figs are commonly used as decorative plants for interior spaces due to their striking appearance and ability to add a touch of tropical ambience.
They require indirect light, but it must be bright and consistent moisture to thrive, and they are sensitive to changes in their environment, just like a fiddle leaf fig tree.
Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep fiddle figs healthy and happy, including regular watering, adequate fertilization, and pruning to control size and shape.
An important part of the care routine for fiddle fig house plants is the choice of growing pots. Here learn all about the types of pots that are needed for fiddle figs to turn into fiddle fig trees after growing.
What To Consider When Shopping for A Fiddle Leaf Planter
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Choosing the right planter for the fiddle fig is important for its well-being and growth. Here are some tips on how to choose a planter to put the fiddle fig:
Size
Choose a planter one to two sizes bigger than the current container to give your plant enough area to propagate. A too-small planter can restrict root growth and cause your plant to become root-bound, while a too-large planter can retain too much moisture and cause root rot.
Drainage
It is important to choose a planter that has drainage holes to manage the excess water coming out of the soil. Hence, root rot and excessive watering will be avoided.
Material
Choose a planter made of a porous material, such as terracotta, which allows air to circulate through the soil and helps regulate moisture levels. Avoid plastic containers, as they can trap moisture and lead to overwatering.
Style
Choose a planter that complements your decor style and the size and shape of your plant. Consider the color and texture of the planter as well as the overall design.
Placement
Consider where you will be placing your plant when choosing a planter. If your plant will be in a low-light area, a lighter-colored planter can help reflect light and brighten the space.
By choosing the right planter for the fiddle fig, you can help ensure its nourishment and growth and create an attractive addition to your home decor.
Best Planter Size: Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees
The ideal planter size for a fiddle fig tree depends on the current size of your plant and how much you want it to propagate. As a general rule, you should choose a decorative pot that is 2-5 inches bigger in diameter than the existing pot.
Fiddle leaf plants like to be slightly root-bound, so you don’t want to choose a pot that is too large. A pot that is too large may lead to overwatering and root decay, as the soil will take longer to dry out.
When repotting your large fiddle fig, find a planter with drainage holes and fill the bottom with a layer of rocks or gravel to improve drainage. Use a well-draining mix that contains the perfect combination of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil. After repotting, water fiddle fig thoroughly and allow excess water to drain out the bottom of the pot.
In general, a pot that is 10-12 inches in diameter is a good size for a small to medium-sized fiddle fig tree.
For larger fiddle fig trees, you can use a pot that is up to 16-18 inches in diameter. However, keep in mind that a pot that is too large can store more water, causing overwatering and decaying roots, so choose the pot size carefully based on the size of your plant.
Repotting Fiddle Fig Tree
Transplanting a fiddle leaf can be an important step in its growth and development. Here are the steps to follow when repotting a large fiddle leaf fig:
Choose the right time: Spring is the ideal time to transplant the fiddle fig; it is when the fiddle fig is in the growth period. Prevent repotting in the winter when the plant is dormant.
Choose the right container: Select a container that is one to two sizes larger than the current one to give your plant room to grow. Make sure the container has drainage holes to drain the excess water.
Choose the right soil: Use a well-draining mix that is specifically made for houseplants. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand works well.
Remove the fiddle fig from its current container: Gently tip the container to one side and use your hand to loosen the root ball from the container carefully. If your fiddle fig is root-bound, softly loosen its roots to promote oxygen intake.
Add soil to the new container: Add a layer of fresh soil to the bottom of the new container.
Place the fiddle in the container: Set the plant at the center of the new container and add soil around the roots, pressing it down gently to remove air pockets.
Irrigate the plant: Hyrate the plant thoroughly and allow the excess water to come out of the container at the base.
Place the plant in the new location: Once the plant has been repotted, place it in a bright but filtered indirect light location and avoid direct sunlight for a few days.
Best Decorative Pot For Fiddle Leaf Fig Planter
A classic terracotta pot or a simple white or neutral-colored ceramic pot are popular choices for fiddle plants. However, many stylish options are available, such as woven baskets or decorative pots with interesting textures or patterns.
Ultimately, the best decorative pot to place the fiddle leaf meets the plant’s needs and complements your style.
The Different Types of Pots To Consider For Fiddle Leaf Fig trees
There are several types of decorative pots that can work well for fiddle leaf plants. Here are some options:
Terracotta pots for fiddle fig
Terracotta planters seem to be the go-to decorative pot for fiddle figs. They are porous and allow air and water to circulate through the soil, which can help prevent waterlogging and root rot.
Ceramic pots for fiddle fig
The ceramic pot comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making them a stylish choice for fiddle plants. They are also heavier and more stable than other types of pots.
Concrete pots for fiddle fig
Concrete pot is durable and can withstand outdoor conditions, making them a good choice if you want a fiddle fig as a patio or balcony plant.
Seagrass basket for fiddle fig
Seagrass baskets are popular for fiddle leafs as they provide a natural, bohemian look. However, they do not have drainage holes, so you may need to add a plastic liner or saucer to prevent water from leaking.
Self-watering pots for fiddle fig
Self-watering pot has a reservoir at the end that provides water to the plant as needed. This can be a convenient option if you travel frequently or have difficulty remembering to water your plant.
When choosing a pot for the fiddle fig, make sure it has proper drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
In order to give your plant a chance to develop, pick a good new pot that really is one to two sizes bigger than the decorative container it is now in.
Are Plastic Planters Good for Fiddle leaf fig trees?
Plastic pots can be a good option for fiddle fig trees, as they are lightweight, affordable, and durable. They are also easy to clean and come in a variety of sizes and colors.
However, there are a few things to consider when using plastic pots for fiddle figs. One potential issue is that plastic pots do not breathe as well as other materials like terracotta or ceramic.
This can cause moisture to build up in your soil mix, leading to waterlogging and root decay. To prevent this, you can add perlite or vermiculite to the soil mix to increase drainage.
Another potential issue with plastic pots is that they can become brittle and crack over time, especially if exposed to direct sunlight or high temperatures. To prevent this, you can keep your plastic container out of direct sunlight and choose a pot made of thicker, more durable plastic.
Overall, plastic pots can work well for a fiddle fig as long as you take steps to ensure adequate drainage and choose a pot made of durable, high-quality plastic.
Best Drainage Pot for Fiddle Leaf Fig
The drainage container that works best for a fiddle fig is one with lots of holes for water to drain through and is created by a porous material.
Moreover, it’s wise to pick a container with ample drainage holes to quickly drain any extra water. Water may not be able to drain from the pot effectively if the drainage holes are too small, which could result in soggy soil.
What Is A Plant Stand For Fiddle Leaf tree?
A plant stand for a fiddle tree is a piece of furniture designed to hold a potted fiddle leaf fig plant off the surface.
Plant stands are available in various styles, materials, and sizes, and they may be used indoors and outdoors. A plant stand can serve several purposes for a fiddle fig tree.
First, it can help elevate the plant to a height where it can be more easily admired and appreciated.
Second, it can help protect your floors or carpets from water damage and soil spills by providing a stable base for the plant to sit on.
Finally, a plant stand can add a decorative element to your space, helping to enhance your room’s overall aesthetic.
When choosing a plant stand for the fiddle leaf tree, consider factors like the size and weight of your plant, the style of your room, and the material of the stand.
You want to choose a stand that is sturdy enough to support your indoor plants but also visually appealing and complementary to your existing decor.
How Often Should You Repot a Fiddle Leaf Fig?
Fiddle leaf figs generally prefer to be slightly root-bound, so they do not need to be repotted frequently.
However, it’s still essential to repot them when they become too large for their current container to avoid root ball or if the soil has become too compacted or waterlogged.
A good rule of thumb is to repot fiddle fig every 1-2 years or when you notice the roots starting to grow out of the drainage holes or the soil is excessively wet or dry.
Do Fiddle Figs Need Drainage Holes?
Yes, fiddle figs need drainage holes in their pots. Fiddle leaves require well-draining soil to prevent issues like root rot and other water-related problems.
Drainage holes allow excess water to flow from the pot, preventing water from accumulating inside the soil and suffocating the roots.
Without drainage holes, excess water can accumulate inside the soil, leading to root decay, which may be fatal to your plant. It can also cause other issues like yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth.
When choosing a pot for the fiddle leaf fig, make sure it has drainage holes at the base so that excess water can flow out. If the pot you want to use does not have drainage holes, you can create them yourself by drilling or punching holes at the base of the pot.
Additionally, ensure that the drainage holes are not blocked by placing a layer of rocks or gravel at the foundation of the planter before adding the potting soil. This will keep the plant healthy, and it will also help to improve drainage and keep the soil from becoming waterlogged.
Is One Drainage Hole Enough for Fiddle Leaf Fig?
For a fiddle fig tree, one draining hole is typically insufficient. Fiddle leaf figs dislike standing water and prefer soil that drains properly.
Too much water can build up in your soil mix without proper drainage and cause root rot and other problems. To guarantee sufficient drainage, a functional container should ideally have multiple holes.
You can add more drainage points to a pot if it only has one by drilling or poking additional holes into the bottom of the pot. As an alternative, you can add some gravel or rocks to the bottom of the pot to help with drainage.
Is a Paper Bag Planter Good for Fiddle figs?
While a paper bag planter may seem eco-friendly and cost-effective, it is not recommended for fiddle species.
Paper bags are not durable or long-lasting, and they can easily tear or break down over time, causing the soil to spill out and potentially damaging the plant’s roots.
Additionally, paper bags do not provide good insulation for the plant’s roots, which can make it difficult to maintain a consistent temperature and moisture level in your soil.
Fig trees prefer to have stable soil conditions, and a paper bag planter is unlikely to provide that.
Conclusion: Best Pots for Ficus lyrata
The best pot for a fiddle fig is one that allows for proper drainage and is appropriately sized for the plant. Pots made from porous materials like terra cotta or ceramic are good options, as they allow excess water to evaporate and promote good airflow to the plant’s roots. It’s important to choose a pot that has multiple drainage holes in the bottom and is at least 2-5 inches bigger in diameter than the plant’s root ball.
Plastic pots can also be used, but it’s important to ensure that they have adequate drainage holes and are not too large, as excess soil can hold onto too much moisture and cause root rot. Whichever type of pot you choose, make sure it is placed on a tray or saucer to catch any excess water and prevent it from damaging your floors or carpet.