How to Re-pot a Fiddle Leaf Fig
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We have had our fiddle leaf fig for a little over two years now. It’s been in the black, plastic pot it originally came in all of that time. I’ve read that they need to be re-potted every 1 to 2 years, and have noticed recently the signs of it being root bound. The growth has completely stopped for months, roots have been trying to come over the sides of the pot, and soil has been separating from the edges. In short, it was time for this guy to get a new little home!
How to Re-Pot a Fiddle Leaf Fig:
1: Purchase a pot that is only 3 – 4 inches bigger than your previous pot.
I found a white one for $4 at Home Depot. Fiddle leaf figs like their roots to snug. Switching to a much larger pot may shock your fiddle, so it’s best to not go too much larger.
2: Purchase potting soil.
I used a combination of Miracle-Gro Cactus Potting Mix and Indoor Potting Mix.
3: Take everything outside OR cover the area in your home where you will be working with a drop cloth or garbage bags.
This gets messy! I just covered our breakfast table with garbage bags to do this, but you definitely want something underneath where you will be working to assist in clean-up.
4: Add drainage (if needed).
If your pot does not have drainage holes, fill the bottom with 1 – 2 inches of rock. This is what I did!
5: Add 1 – 2 inches of soil to create a bed for the rootball.
6: Remove fiddle leaf from existing container.
If your fiddle leaf fig is ready to be re-potted, it should come out pretty easily when you gently pull on the trunk.
7: Place your fiddle leaf fig into the center of the larger pot and fill the remaining space with soil. Gently press the soil in until it’s packed well.
8: Water the soil well and add soil to areas that need it.
When you first water the plant, the soil that you just added will sink in in areas. I just added more after watering to make it even across the top.
All done! Place your fiddle friend back in indirect light and maintain as usual!
I hope this has been helpful in your search for how to re-pot a fiddle leaf fig!
Until next time,
