The Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) has become one of the most popular houseplants in recent years, known for its large, glossy leaves that add a bold statement to any room. However, as much as these plants are admired for their beauty, they can also be a bit finicky. One of the most common concerns among Fiddle Leaf Fig owners is leaf drop. If you’ve noticed your Fiddle Leaf Fig dropping leaves, you’re not alone. But don’t worry—this is a common issue, and in most cases, it's fixable. Here’s everything you need to know about why your Fiddle Leaf Fig might be losing leaves and how to resolve it.

1. Environmental Stress

Fiddle Leaf Figs are sensitive to changes in their environment. Moving your plant to a new location, especially if it’s been placed somewhere with inconsistent lighting or fluctuating temperatures, can stress it out. In response, it may drop some of its older leaves to focus on adapting to the new conditions.

What to Do:

• Lighting: Make sure your Fiddle Leaf Fig is getting enough light. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light, so avoid placing them in dark corners or areas with little sunlight.
• Temperature: Keep your Fiddle Leaf Fig in a space where the temperature is stable, ideally between 15°C to 24°C. Avoid drafty areas or placing the plant near heating or air conditioning vents.

2. Overwatering or Underwatering

One of the most common causes of leaf drop in Fiddle Leaf Figs is improper watering. If you overwater your plant, the roots can become waterlogged, leading to root rot. On the other hand, underwatering can cause the plant to become stressed and shed leaves as it tries to conserve resources.

What to Do:

• Watering Schedule: Water your Fiddle Leaf Fig only when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to check the moisture level in the soil regularly.
• Drainage: Ensure your plant's pot has good drainage. Standing water in the bottom of the pot can lead to root rot. If you suspect overwatering, remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Healthy roots should be white or light tan; brown, mushy roots indicate rot.

3. Low Humidity

Fiddle Leaf Figs are native to tropical climates, where the air is humid. If the air in your home is too dry, especially during winter months or in air-conditioned rooms, your plant may struggle to maintain moisture, leading to leaf drop.

What to Do:

• Increase Humidity: To create a more humid environment for your Fiddle Leaf Fig, consider using a humidifier, placing a shallow tray of water near the plant, or regularly misting the leaves.
• Grouping Plants: Placing your Fiddle Leaf Fig near other plants can help increase humidity, as plants naturally release moisture into the air.

4. Pest Infestation

While Fiddle Leaf Figs are generally pest-resistant, they can still be vulnerable to common houseplant pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can damage the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off.

What to Do:

• Inspect Your Plant: Regularly check the underside of leaves and stems for signs of pests. Look for tiny webs (spider mites), cottony spots (mealybugs), or discolouration.
• Treatment: If you notice pests, treat your plant with insecticidal soap or a mixture of water and dish soap. Alternatively, you can wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove any visible pests.

5. Root Bound Plant

If your Fiddle Leaf Fig has outgrown its pot and the roots have become tangled or cramped, it can lead to stress, causing leaf drop. A root-bound plant can struggle to take up water and nutrients, which directly affects its overall health.

What to Do:

• Repotting: If your Fiddle Leaf Fig is in a pot that’s too small, it’s time to repot. Choose a container that’s 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot. Be sure to use well-draining soil and avoid burying the root ball too deep.
• Check the Roots: When repotting, inspect the roots for any signs of rot. Trim away any mushy or brown sections before repotting.

6. Natural Leaf Shedding

Sometimes, leaf drop is just a natural process. Fiddle Leaf Figs tend to shed older leaves, especially during periods of growth or in response to environmental changes. If your plant is dropping only a few older leaves and not showing any other signs of distress, it could simply be going through a normal shedding process.

What to Do:

• Don't Panic: If only a few older leaves are dropping and the rest of the plant looks healthy, it may be a natural part of the plant’s life cycle. Continue caring for it as usual, and give it time to adjust.

7. Too Much Direct Sunlight

While Fiddle Leaf Figs love bright light, direct sunlight can scorch their large leaves, leading to brown spots and leaf drop. The intense sun can also dry out the plant, causing it to shed leaves in an effort to conserve moisture.

What to Do:

• Move the Plant: If you suspect your Fiddle Leaf Fig is getting too much direct sunlight, move it to a location with bright, indirect light. If you’re using artificial light, fluorescent grow lights can also help provide the right amount of light.

A Fiddle Leaf Fig dropping leaves can be concerning, but it’s often a sign that your plant needs a little extra attention. By identifying the root cause—whether it’s environmental stress, watering issues, humidity levels, pests, or natural leaf shedding—you can help your plant recover and thrive. Keep an eye on your Fiddle Leaf Fig’s care routine, and with a little patience, you’ll soon have a lush, healthy plant that continues to bring beauty to your home.