Caring for a Struggling Fiddle Leaf Fig After Delivery
Many factors can cause your Fiddle Leaf Fig to appear stressed or unhealthy after delivery, ranging from acclimation to its new environment to slight damage during shipping. With targeted care, these issues can often be resolved. Below is a comprehensive guide to address this situation and support your plant’s recovery.
Common Acclimation Issues
It’s normal for Fiddle Leaf Figs to show some signs of acclimation stress, such as yellowing leaves, minor leaf loss, or browning, particularly in the first two weeks after arrival. This does not necessarily mean the plant is unhealthy, but ensuring proper care is key during this period.
Easyplant’s 90-Day Guarantee
Easyplant offers a 90-day plant health guarantee. If your plant struggles or deteriorates significantly within this period, you may qualify for a replacement without needing to return the original plant. You’ll receive confirmation via email, and the replacement will typically arrive within a 4–9 day timeframe.
Steps to Help Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Recover
1. Trim Damaged Leaves
Use clean, sharp scissors to remove any yellow, brown, or damaged leaves. This allows the plant to focus its energy on developing new, healthy growth.
2. Watering Guidance
Fill the built-in reservoir with room-temperature tap water. If your home has a water softener or very hard water, consider using distilled or filtered water.
Only refill the reservoir when it is empty and the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry (test this using a finger or chopstick). Check approximately every month as per the easyplant care guide. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
3. Optimal Placement
Place your Fiddle Leaf Fig in a bright spot with appropriate lighting for the species. Bright, indirect light is optimal, though it can also tolerate some direct sunlight.
Keep it away from heating or cooling sources such as radiators, vents, or drafty windows. These environmental factors can lead to stress and leaf browning.
4. Adjust Humidity Levels
Ensure adequate humidity in the plant's environment. Methods include: - Using a pebble tray beneath or near the plant. - Placing a glass of water near the plant (moisture from evaporation supports local humidity). - Using a plant humidifier for consistent levels.
Avoid placing the Fiddle Leaf Fig in areas with extreme fluctuations in temperature or airflow.
5. Give the Plant Time to Adjust
Stress and leaf shedding during the first few weeks is normal as the plant acclimates to its new environment. Minimize environmental changes by not moving the plant after placement.
Monitor its progress over 2–3 weeks to observe improvements. Consistent care is the key to recovery.
When to Seek a Replacement
If you’ve followed all care guidelines and your Fiddle Leaf Fig has not shown signs of recovery, or its condition worsens, don’t hesitate to reach out to easyplant. Under the 90-day guarantee, you may be eligible for a replacement plant. Providing a photo of the plant may expedite troubleshooting or the replacement process.
By implementing these care steps and strategies, your Fiddle Leaf Fig is likely to recover and thrive. For more detailed ongoing care information, refer to the easyplant Plant Care Library.