Luster Leaf 1820 Rapitest Moisture Meter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SWIJKEE/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_fabc_uf-TFbT44SZ1D
I bought this and it has changed my plant game. I can keep anything alive and happy. Maybe you could benefit from one also?
Hi, I’m using the following fertilizer:
Fiddle Leaf Fig Slow-Release Fertilizer by Perfect Plants - Resealable 5oz. Bag - Consistent Nutrient Enrichment - for Indoor and Outdoor Use on All Ficus Varieties https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GBFNWLM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_1HWBWT066MH9K73FARW0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I poked some holes in the soil so it can get down in there. I also let the water sit there for a little while before I let excess water drain from the bottom so it can soak the roots well. Lastly, for my light, I am using:
GE Lighting 93101230 LED Grow Light, BR30, Balanced Spectrum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_PVSMW636FWCN4GHAH1CC
I found this fertilizer on Amazon that I use with every watering! That and grow lights since I’m dealing with a north facing window but I’m not sure it’s been as beneficial as the new fertilizer! fertilizer link
So my fiddle leaf fig is a 3 ft tall bush and I water it about every 1 to 1.5 weeks when the soil is bone dry. I use a moisture meter for this so when it is under 4. It is planted in a 12 inch diameter pot. I mix a total of 6 cups of water with ~2 teaspoon of this liquid 3-1-2 NPK fertilizer. (About 1 teaspoon of fertilizer for every 2.5/3 cups of water). I do this for every watering right now! I got the fertilizer from Amazon! It’s the Botanicare CNS17 Grow. $30 for 128oz https://www.amazon.com/Botanicare-CNS17-Nutrient-Formula-1-Gallon/dp/B00IGFJXHC
Right now with my new growth, I’ve been seeing a lot of brown spots on the leaves due to edema, but they generally go away after the leaf has fully grown!
The most obvious symptom evident in the leaves is over watering. You've read some of the other comments and I would agree with their strategy on checking the roots for rot. However, when repotting you need a pot that can drain and breathe. I can't tell from the photo (next time take a lot of pictures of the plant, closeups of leaves, the pot (top, sides, and bottom) but if this pot has a solid bottom with no drain holes it is not suitable for your FLF. They need soil that drains and holds on to a slight and steadily declining moisture content. Yup, they can be a picky plant. Also, I can't stress enough the truthfulness from one of the commenters about how it will likely lose all of its leaves - BUT THIS DOESN'T MEAN IT IS DEAD! I have brought back a lot of discarded/attempted homicide by dog/cat FLFs and they would be nothing but sticks for weeks before showing new buds. Be patient. Also, I've had tremendous success with these two products (no affiliate links just what I've used):
Fiddle Leaf Fig Soil by Perfect... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QLXL2M2
Fiddle Leaf Fig Slow-Release... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GBFNWLM
The key to a healthy FLF is figuring out how much water it wants in a particular location - meaning don't move it until you do! Eliminate as many variables as you can before starting the experiment. Only water it when you can put an index finger all the way down into the soil and it doesn't have any moisture. Then I suggest a good 5 minute soak in the shower and no water (again depending on the soil) for 4-7 days.
Once the leaves are coming back in, she'll let you know how she's doing by the condition of the leaf - red spots, curling, etc. Just be patient and loving. You'll have a healthy and happy FLF for years to come.
I feel you haha! You’re welcome. I obsess over my fiddle also because it’s such a focal point in my house.
I actually just use miracle-gro everything. They sell perlite as well.
Some people dislike miracle-gro and other soils that contain the little green fertilizer beads, and prefer to get organic ingredients and mix their own. I personally have had no problems using miracle gro and adding a 3-1-2 liquid fertilizer once a month during spring/summer (this is the fertilizer I use, for what it’s worth).
I wouldn’t worry about the fertilizer for now, just for future reference. They sort of need to adjust to only one new thing at a time, and in your case it’s the soil for now. (:
Notching really fluffed up of my fiddle on the right. I have four new branches from doing that.
And wind exercises (letting it sit outside in the wind for a few hours everyday) strengthened the trunk significantly
Fertilizer I use: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XGC9W1P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_7FRG3XQEJFWJBSVCCVR0
I’ve had very good results with these: GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_jndNb7CPKGW8n
I have them on a lamp that has 3 lightbulbs and leave them on all night. Definitely needs more light. Hope that helps!
Oh dang, that’s pretty good! You could totally try the diffuser sans oil to see if that helps, but I’m very very jealous of your humidity, that seems very reasonable/as though it shouldn’t be causing crispy ends.
My only other thought is nutrients. I fertilize every time I water in winter (thanks to low light, I only water about once/mo when it’s cold and dark up in Chicago). I fertilize every 2 weeks in spring/summer, or every other time I water. I use this fertilizer, to mixed results. My larger fiddle has completely turned around because of it but I don’t notice much difference on my medium size one. I hope you find a good balance for yours! The new growth is very promising. When leaves are damaged beyond 50% I would snip them to redirect all those nutrients to new growth!
I HAD THIS PROBLEM TOOO!
my cats peed in mine and almost killed it. BUT she survived and is thriving today
-i took all the soil out and threw it away
-washed the roots with room temp water in my kitchen sink
-all new soil. put a lot of cinnamon in the top soil (cats hate the smell or sneeze alot)
-and oddly enough the sticky gnat traps from amazon keep my cats away too bc they HAAAAATE getting it stuck to them and learn the lesson quick. and its non-toxic to cats sop don't worry!!!
***also i personally find that FLF need lots of root space. i would risk it and repot if you are going to do all this anyway. maybe a pot with a wider/deeper base
link for gnat traps: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XLM4FWL/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabc_dlC_94aYFbV7TBRBZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
If you think it might be a watering issue (which it sounds like from the other comments), I really recommend a moisture meter to help you understand what's going on in the soil! With a pot that big, it's hard to tell how wet or dry things are--the "top 2 inches" rule doesn't really work.
I just got this one, but there are some even cheaper options on Amazon if you don't want the light/pH readings.
I’m having the same issue. I re-potted in 100% cactus mix just because I bought a bag & didn’t have more potting soil to blend. It felt right but we’ll see. The information I read online said to water after you re-pot but my soil was so wet & I’d sprayed the roots off after removing from the old soil & cutting out the rot so the roots felt hydrated so I skipped watering after re-potting. I cut off the worst leaves (less than 10%) but the ones left with some spots don’t look like they’re going to fall off any time soon they’re just not as pretty as before : ( I also bought a root rot treatment off amazon that’s arriving today. I hope it helps. See link below. Wishing your plant the best of luck!
https://www.amazon.com/Houseplant-Resource-Non-Chemical-Protecting-preventing/dp/B07J9MG66S
Whew, you chose a tougher one to start with!
Ok, here's the one I use: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HP4FGYG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fab_kNpEFb3B0Y38Q
Also, I'd start using filtered water if you aren't already. Just read up on FLFs. I've found so much useful info on tik tok of all places! Also, many people in this sub had similar issues, so just take a scroll when you have some time to learn more about your new baby!
Best of luck! 🌱
Every other time I water I use a root supplement and a special fertilizer - see below!
Root Supplement by Houseplant Resource Center. All-Purpose Ready-to-use Root Supplement for houseplants, Perfect for Fiddle Leaf Fig Plants. 8 Liquid https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07J9MG66S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_87KofzJmCvi8K
Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Fertilizer | Ficus Plant Food | Improves Leaves and Branches | Potted Indoor Trees and House Plants Treatment by Aquatic Arts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RWFFLYJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_CM1hKRTHC9PVo
I found this one for the US, which may be a more viable shipping option for you? https://www.amazon.com/Indoor-Fertilizer-All-Purpose-Healthy-Outdoor/dp/B0834WTLY9
It needs to be repotted and FLUSHHHHH the root ball with water. It has lots of ammonia from the cat pee in it.
I would add some mycorrhizae fungi, Wettable powder which will help the plant recover. It saved my FLF’s life!!
Transplant shock! Use this ASAP. it’s like plant probiotics in a powder you can mix with water and pour from the top down of the plant.
When I repotted, I used this. I water maybe every 12-14 days by drenching it and then letting it drain. I also use a liquid FLF fertilizer when I water.
Premium Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Y72X245?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I may need to spray it more often and/or purchase a humidifier. Thanks for the feedback I appreciate it.
Also, here is the link to my tv stand!
VIVO Artistic Easel 45 to 65 inch... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JVVV9WV?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Sorry, I don’t really know how to post the links on this app… so hopefully these work for you, looks like the lights were $25, but there are others in that range if you look.
LED Plant Grow Light 4 Strips Full Spectrum Red Blue Sunlike Indoor Growing Lamp with Auto Cycle Timer 3/6/12 Hours, 6 Dimmable Levels, 3 Switch Modes for House Garden Seedling Hydroponics Succulent https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LGD8DS7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_gl_i_FA634K0AATBZ8SSY6PAF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Plant Food | 3-1-2 NPK + Kelp | 100+ Uses, 8OZ | Indoor Ficus Fertilizer | Instant Feed, Water Soluble | Fiddle Leaf Treats by Bless Your Soil https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092WZRPNZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_gl_i_15NVGYXHR03AVE3Y6XXD
By the way, you may already be doing this, but make sure to remove the liner from the decorative pot when you water or you’ll get soggy roots.
Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Plant Food for Ficus Lyrata (and Ficus Audrey) – Calcium Fortified, Urea-Free and with NPK Ratio of 3-1-2 for Healthy Roots, Stems and Leaves (8 Ounces)) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BG98GQD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_08SNC309C1Q4B43Z1PHR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got this moisture meter and now I’m certain about when I need to water and exactly how much.
Gouevn Soil Moisture Meter, Plant Moisture Meter Indoor & Outdoor, Hygrometer Moisture Sensor Soil Test Kit Plant Water Meter for Garden, Farm, Lawn (No Battery Needed) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RDDLCBJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_01AYPG0W3QEQ8ZZKDJDJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
This one, but it is out of stock! I just searched it and found that out. I recommend seeking out another 3-1-2 liquid fertilizer. There are similar ones online. Eon Natural
I use this for my fiddle and a few other larger humidity living plants all grouped together and they seem to love it. Elechomes SH8820 Humidifiers,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S8TV53J?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Yeah, I put my finger in the soil. To be honest I’m not the most consistent waterer.
The pot has drainage, I remember now I got it at Amazon. I have pebbles on the bottom.
I got my FLF two years ago in Jan 2020.
12" Self-Watering+ Self-Aerating + High Drainage + Ventilated Deep Reservoir Modern Round Planter Maintains Healthy Roots and Moisture for House Plants & Garden (White) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BCJDRFJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_W0MZ9263YR3VC5YVNZ3P?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Your welcome. Also slow release fiddle food and fiddle food in liquid form is thick and weird looking. Like a poop form. Like baby poop. Super gross but totally works. Sending you a link. Also if you’re interested I follow the ladies that make it on YouTube. Their channel is amazing. So much so I’ve rescued a few recently.
Slow release balls
Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Plant Food - Slow Release Fertilizer Pellets for Potted Figs - Steady Nutrients to Grow Healthy Indoor and Outdoor Ficus Plants (5 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LJJRB3S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_YJ5XSBWY4KTPH28KTZCF
Liquid plant food. Super popular! Highly rated. Amazing reviews. I swear by it!
Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Plant Food for Ficus Lyrata – Calcium Fortified, Urea-Free and with NPK Ratio of 3-1-2 for Healthy Roots, Stems and Leaves (8 Ounces) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BG98GQD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_XVX304HWF64KPWSEQQEJ
Or take the easy route and use this soil. I love this company’s products. They’ve kind of gotten the dummy products for beginners of FFL trees down to a science. They also have their own YouTube channel. You should check it out.
Premium Fiddle Leaf Fig Soil by Perfect Plants, 8 Quart Professional Blend for All Ficus Lyrata & Indoor Plants https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QLXL2M2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_A30TFDAM67XS0YNEDKNT
My best luck has been with giving a comprehensive shower, and if badly covered, I do a bit of a rub down with an insecticide soap during -- I'm fond of this one. I also treat the soil with dilute peroxide to kill any in the soil.
I use the GE balanced spectrum grow light on my FLF and as long as it’s not too close it’s been doing great all year.
GE Lighting Grow Light PAR38 Light Bulb, Full Spectrum, 32-Watts, 1-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NNT3G7J/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_MBBMETGTHY4HAZ41BX2R?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
How do I know if it’s too close? If my hand gets warm at the distance between light and leaves, that’s too close.
Try this Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Fertilizer | Ficus Plant Food | Improves Leaves and Branches | Potted Indoor Trees and House Plants Treatment by Aquatic Arts https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RWFFLYJ/ref=cm_sw_r_apanp_bJSqaCMkgsaIH
I've had really good repeat results with this one. They also make a soil specific for FLFs
Fiddle Leaf Fig Slow-Release Fertilizer by Perfect Plants - Resealable 5oz. Bag - Consistent Nutrient Enrichment - for Indoor and Outdoor Use on All Ficus Varieties https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GBFNWLM/
I don't think the conventional carbon/brita type filters do. Maybe some expensive ones. Anyway, I use an aquarium GH test kit to measure calcium and Mg, it's quite accurate. https://www.amazon.com/API-TEST-Freshwater-Aquarium-Water/dp/B003SNCHMA/ref=sr\_1\_5?dchild=1&keywords=gh+kit&qid=1633072193&sr=8-5
Search moisture meters in reddit. There's a lot of people complaining about problems with their plants since/despite having a moisture meter.
The FLFs don't like change. As you inherited it, try to match it to it's previous conditions. There's also a FLF plant food that should help: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RWFFLYJ/ref=cm_sw_r_apanp_3Arq12PEEBEcL
Yep, some roots top and bottom. Been wanting to try a net/mesh pot like some bonsai growers, but I might play it safe with terracotta.
Thank you!!! I live in Southern California so I don't get much humidity, instead once a week I move my FLF to a humidifier for about an hour or two. But I really started seeing growth when I started fertilizing it!! (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RWFFLYJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_PQP3GJXFAN5XSNXC6MMH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1) I fertilize her twice a month! Currently I am getting her adjusted to direct sunlight bc my southern window gets that during winter, so I don't want her to burn. I did have a stage of no growth but no leaves lost so I think it takes time for your tree to get used to it's new environment! I hope that helps! I'm still learning lol
Hi, I’m using the following fertilizer:
Fiddle Leaf Fig Slow-Release Fertilizer by Perfect Plants - Resealable 5oz. Bag - Consistent Nutrient Enrichment - for Indoor and Outdoor Use on All Ficus Varieties https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GBFNWLM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_1HWBWT066MH9K73FARW0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I poked some holes in the soil so it can get down in there. I also let the water sit there for a little while before I let excess water drain from the bottom so it can soak the roots well. Lastly, for my light, I am using:
GE Lighting 93101230 LED Grow Light, BR30, Balanced Spectrum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_PVSMW636FWCN4GHAH1CC
I’m in college so my choices in plant care are affordable. Don’t know if it’s the best light but it does the job! Led Grow Light for Indoor Plants... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0872M2BNW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Edit: this might be small for your tree since it’s a 3 light clip but you could find others that are just bulbs and find a handing light fixture to our above your tree! Might even be cheaper
I use This as recommended by Dossier blog
The pot size looks okay to me (I’m no expert!)
I get this fertilizer - Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Plant Food for Ficus Lyrata – Calcium Fortified, Urea-Free and with NPK Ratio of 3-1-2 for Healthy Roots, Stems and Leaves (8 Ounces) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BG98GQD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_EAZM56TM0PBVMPQ1QDXY
I use this one per the instructions on the back, which use the bottle's cap as a measuring tool. I think it's one cap mixed into every two cups of water.
I add this bti liquid product to my water. Same active ingredient. I do get mold from mosquito bits too. And I was too impatient to let them fully dissolve in water (if that's even possible). I put a drop or two into a gallon every time I water (might be over kill) and it's been working well.
When I got it from the nursery it had the longer stem with a gap between leaves (with one area in the middle of the gap that seemed like it may have had a leaf at one point), but I really didn't try to help it even out or grow fuller. It has just always put out new leaves instead of more stem when it grows. (Sorry, I know that's not very helpful!)
I do use a small amount (about half a capful diluted in water, less than recommended) of this fiddle leaf fig fertilizer once every 6-8 weeks, and I have noticed that since I started using it the new growth comes in sets of 2 or 3 leaves instead of just one, which makes it look fuller. I would try that and see if it helps your FLF put out new leaves more frequently!
In addition to the good advice about light and moisture, food can go a longggg way. I've had mine since Oct '19, and just recently started feeding her. WHOAAAA. She put out like 3 leaves within a month. Maybe she just needs some nutrients?
PS - I got my FLF food on Amazon: Fig Food
A friends plants started doing this (Check post history) someone recommended suggested this fertilizer, i used it and it worked. It’s out of fert season, but it’s worth a try. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RWFFLYJ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Here's the lights I purchased. I bought them on Prime day, so they were a bit cheaper than they are now.
GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_4JI6Fb4GYQARG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Yes i gave it this fertilizer a couple weeks befoee the new growth and im almost certain thats what sprouted the growth. I had seen a bud on the top for 6-7 months that did not bloom. It’s only leaning towards the window bc its top heavy and there are big leaves on the right side of the tree causing it to lean right. I got this tree in bad condition and had to cut off some leaves and branches right away. As i had mentioned, none of my 3-4 notches have resulted in any growth. The tree faces a north window. Fiddle Leaf Fig Slow-Release Fertilizer by Perfect Plants - Resealable 5oz. Bag - Consistent Nutrient Enrichment - for Indoor and Outdoor Use on All Ficus Varieties https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GBFNWLM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_QQJ0Fb0QXFYKQ
I just bought this one based on this post. I’ll put it in a decorative lamp near my FLF. GE BR30 LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, 9-Watt Grow Light Bulb, Plant Light Bulb with Balanced Lighting for Seeds and Greens https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dlC_MuaYFbG4FP7RC
I think you should fertilize less in the fall/winter, but I’m still fertilizing a little every time I water. I use this fertilizer and put a cap full in every time I water:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NN6SVG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_N2yLFbTKVYMHD I got this one cause it was cheap and it doesn’t give off a super pink glow, and it’s been working really well for my propagation and flfs!
I’m in north america too but mine did ok after an almost immediate repot & being on the other side of the curtain in a south facing window (indirect/filtered bright light). I don’t fertilize quite so often though, maybe once every third watering? I hold back on fertilizing a bit since I think it’s possible to do it too much and “burn” your plant (experience with that happening with some other plants). I don’t have it on a specific watering schedule, I just go by the top two inches of soil being dry. I will say when I repotted I moved that one to a teracotta pot and that seems to make it dry out a bit faster than my plant that is still in its nursery pot.
The yellow splotchyness on the leaves makes me think it would do well with some fertilizer. It could also have to do with the lack of drainage holes though. I got this kind from amazon and my plants always put out new growth after.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BG98GQD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_8RYoDbPCJCQXA
If it were me, I would repot into a well draining pot with the soil mix the other poster mentioned. Give it a good water. Put it a few feet away from your window and leave it alone for a week or two to see what happens. It may drop some leaves in protest but it should be ok. Then I’d think about fertilizing with the next watering. It’s a beautiful plant OP i think it will look great once you get it situated!
I got them from amazon!! My fiddle leaf is in the smaller one :)
MyGift Set of 2 White Ceramic Vintage-Style Hobnail Textured Flower Planter Pots/Storage Jars https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SWBSZE2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Xi6rDbPQKG4T2
Not OP, but I bought this off amazon on the recommendation of a friend and my FLF loves it. Ton of new growth this summer.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BG98GQD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GcvzDb7A14XXK
Also wouldn’t fertilize too much more this season depending on location (assuming north hemisphere due to Costco :)) as it’s about to be fall
I had some issues with mine & found some vent covers on amazon for pretty cheap. Just make sure you measure your vent before buying.
Deflecto Adjustable Wall Air Deflector, 10" x 16" (51) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00009W3G8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_KMj.Db9H3357R
Ah crap sorry! It was an Amazon buy about £30, with humidity and time cut off settings (I set it to 60% humidity to save my PC from any damage)
Here's a link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07V6X7WL6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I recommend a moisture meter. This one specifically has been very accurate for me.
I let mine dry out almost completely. I have been using Planta as well but more for the purpose of keeping track off all my new plants and as a diary. I water and liquid fertilize every 8 days ish but I only water when the soil is near bone dry. And when it gets thirsty, the leaves will look heavy.
It will definitely spring back alive. For now, you want to take it out of the pot. Gently check and clean the roots (mushy, black or brown roots will fall off but if you have to use shears, make sure to disinfect it first). Try to rid the roots of the old soil as much as possible (rinse, rub, spray hydrogen peroxide). Repot it with good soil (all hail FoxFarm!) and don't water for a week. And get back to regular (but new) watering schedule!
Edit to add:
When watering with tap water, let it sit overnight (24+ hours) them use it to water plants. All plants
I got mine at Home Depot and it looked this way. It took a few weeks to recover from nursery shock. I live in zone 10A. Here’s what I did: 1) quarantined the FLF; 2) did a mixture of dish soap and water and lightly sprayed the soil and lightly the leaves; 3) light fertilizer mixed with my used coffee grounds and egg shells and added it to the soil. The spraying was done when I remembered but not too aggressively or often because I didn’t want to overwhelm the plant with unnecessary moisture. On occasion, I would do a vinegar+citronella spray but that wasn’t often because my lizard brain was worried about lowering the pH of the soil too much. I don’t water the plant anymore because I have it on a watering system and it is doing really well now (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0001IOZ98/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_fab_CV4BFb2MNV87Q)! In total, it took 5 months. This worked for me for my zone. I wish you the best of luck!
Edit: wording for clarity
So I just re-potted (for the third time!) back into the nursery pot after washing her roots off and digging out and mushy feeling clumps stuck at the base of the root ball. I then planted her in this special FLF soil (about 1.5 bags) so I hope this all goes well. Next watering I’m going to fertilize so she doesn’t hate me. I’m still scared guys!
this is what i ordered Fiddle Leaf Fig Slow-Release Fertilizer by Perfect Plants - Resealable 5oz. Bag - Consistent Nutrient Enrichment - for Indoor and Outdoor Use on All Ficus Varieties https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GBFNWLM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_GJHjFbZW4VQTB
I bought one that is specifically for FLF. Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Food 6-2-4 | Liquid Houseplant Fig Tree Fertilizer | Bottle Lasts Twice as Long as Other competitors https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XGC9W1P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_eWigFbNGAXBA7
Mosquito bits will change your life if you have gnats. I mix a bit in to the soil for most of my plants and sprinkle them on top of established ones. They don't hurt the plant and they destroy fungus gnat populations. I had a really terrible infestation - you couldn't breathe in my apartment without a dumb gnat coming at your face - and they completely solved that problem. If you don't want them in the soil you can also dump some in your watering can and soak them and water with that water.
I have this from amazon.
Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Plant Food for Ficus Lyrata – Calcium Fortified, Urea-Free and with NPK Ratio of 3-1-2 for Healthy Roots, Stems and Leaves (8 Ounces) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BG98GQD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_B7DoFbME9RZDV
Thanks for the reply.
I got this soil from Amazon, and it said it was specifically for fiddle leaf figs, so I assumed it would be fine:
Fiddle Leaf Fig Soil by Perfect Plants-8QTS, Professional Blend for All Fiddle Leaf Figs https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QLXL2M2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6P2IEbPW9NMAN
If it is root rot, what’s my solution?
I got this one from Amazon. It pairs with an app. You have to be in close proximity to it, and it doesn't send you alerts, but it's still really helpful! https://www.amazon.com/Moisture-Nutrient-Temperature-Sunlight-Detector/dp/B083SG7DCJ/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=smart+meter+plant&qid=1586147596&sr=8-4
I use a hanging pendant lamp with a MiracleLED bulb, here's the link to the bulb on Amazon. I used that to supplement the less natural light because of Winter, so I'll probably reduce the bulb use with Spring/Summer coming up
I’ve read that if you over water the plant it can cause the roots to rot. You can get a root remedy special for fiddle figs on Amazon.
Link: Houseplant Resource Center Root Supplement - Root Stimulator for Plants Boosts Nat... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07J9MG66S/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_sDPMDbT9MGD2N
Definitely sounds like a moisture issue! I don't know how big your pot is, but once a week sounds like a lot. The bigger the pot, the longer you'll need to wait between watering to really let the soil dry out. I recommend a moisture meter (I just got this one) to really understand what's going on with your moisture levels.
Not sure what kind of leaf deterioration you're seeing, but I was having an issue with all of my new growth at the bottom of the plant falling off and/or molding. I had to switch from watering weekly to every 2 or so weeks for my 6" pot, based on my moisture readings.
I also like to use cactus soil for almost all of my plants because it drains super well. I've heard that Miracle Gro isn't an ideal soil line to use, but haven't tested that theory. In some cases, soil can prolong moisture retention and not allow the plan to dry out as quickly as is ideal.