Fiddle leaf figs are one of the most popular houseplants, but they can be prone to yellowing leaves. If you’re wondering what is causing your fiddle leaf fig tree to turn yellow, read on for some potential causes and solutions!

Why Is My Fiddle Leaf Fig Turning Yellow?

Your fiddle leaf fig is turning yellow because it has been overwatered, there is a lack of sunlight, or it is stressed from environmental changes.

I will now go more in-depth into each of these causes and what you can do to revive a fig plant with yellow leaves…

Yellow Fiddle Leaf Fig from Overwatering

A common reason why your fiddle leaf fig tree might be turning yellow is that you’re overwatering it. Fiddle leaves love moisture and humidity, but they hate standing water! Make sure you’re only watering your plant when the soil is nearly dry.

You can test if your fiddle fig needs water by sticking your finger into the top inch of potting soil. If you can’t keep track or just don’t want to do it every time, get a moisture gauge so you know when to water without having to guess!

I tend to water them once a week during summer, but only every other week during winter. Regardless of the season, its important to always use pots with drainage holes so that the roots aren’t sitting in water.

If the roots do become rotten, it’s important to act immediately. You can fix fiddle leaf root rot by removing all of the wet soil and replacing it with fresh, dry soil. You may also need to prune some of the dead roots and discard them away from your plants (to avoid fungal infections).

Yellow Fiddle Leaf Fig because of Lack of Sunlight

Another reason why your fiddle leaf fig might be turning yellow could be due to a lack of light. If it’s not receiving enough sunlight, its leaves will start to turn pale and become yellowish-green.

Make sure that your fiddle leaf fig is getting at least eight hours per day (preferably closer to 12) in an area with bright but indirect sunlight. It may also help to move the plant closer to where it receives more sunlight every day, or invest in grow lights if necessary!

I use grow lights (Amazon link to mine) on most of my indoor plants during winter. They help to keep them alive and looking green all year round!

Yellow Fiddle Leaf Fig from Stressful Environment Changes

Finally, make sure there aren’t any other factors contributing to your plant’s yellowing leaves.

Are you moving it from a warmer area (above 80°F) to an area with colder temps? Is the house humid one day and dry the next, or are there any large environmental changes happening in its location? All of these can stress out your fiddle leaf fig tree!

If this is the case, make sure that you don’t move your plant around too much until it has adjusted fully. Also, be consistent with watering and lighting so that its environment stays stable.

If necessary, invest in humidity trays or grow lights if needed to help keep up with proper conditions for optimal growth!

Yellow Fiddle Leaf Fig Leaves FAQs

Figs are beautiful, but they need consistent care to look their best. As such, I will now answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

Should I cut yellow leaves off the fiddle leaf fig?

Yes, you can cut off any yellow leaves from your fiddle leaf fig plant. Just make sure not to throw them away, as they are a great source of nutrients and water! If the entire stem is brown or black, however, it’s best to remove that part of the plant entirely.

Is it normal for my fiddle leaf fig to lose some of its lower leaves?

Yes, it’s actually quite normal for fiddle leaf figs to lose older leaves near the base of their stems. This is especially true in lower light conditions when your plant isn’t receiving enough energy or nourishment!

Will too little light cause my fiddle leaf fig to turn yellow?

Yes, not having enough light is one of the most common reasons why your fiddle leaf fig turns yellow. Make sure that it receives at least eight hours per day in bright but indirect sunlight to prevent this problem!

Will too much water cause my fiddle leaf fig to turn yellow?

Yes, too much water can cause your fiddle leaf fig to turn yellow, especially if it’s overwatered. Make sure that you’re only watering when the soil is nearly dry and that there isn’t any standing water in its tray or saucer!

Can I use tap water on my fiddle leaf fig?

You can, but it’s better to use filtered water that is free of chlorine. This will ensure that your plant doesn’t get any extra chemicals or additives in the water, which can sometimes cause yellowing leaves if you do not flush it frequently enough!

Will fiddle leaf fig leaves turn green again?

No, they will not. If your fiddle leaf fig’s leaves have turned yellow, then that means it is unhealthy and won’t recover from its current state.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your fiddle leaf fig might be turning yellow because it’s being overwatered, not receiving enough sunlight, or is stressed from environmental changes.

Make sure you’re only watering when the soil is nearly dry and that your plant has at least eight hours per day of bright but indirect sun exposure.

If necessary use humidity trays or grow lights to keep up with proper conditions for optimal growth!

I hope you have enjoyed this post and that you learned something new about your fiddle leaf fig! If you have other questions, please leave them in the comments below.