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Why Fig Trees Leaves Turn Yellow: Understanding the Signs of Disease or Stress  

yellow fig tree leaves

If you’ve noticed that the leaves on your fig tree have started to turn yellow, you might be wondering what’s going on. The fig tree is a valued mainstay in many gardens. We’ll explore the causes of fig trees becoming yellow in this piece and go through the actions you may take to maintain a strong, healthy tree.

yellow fig tree leaves
yellow fig tree leaves

The Fig tree Is Not Getting Enough Water

Yellowing leaves on your Fig tree are often a sign of moisture stress. This occurs when the plant is not getting enough water, causing the leaves to droop in an effort to conserve water.

As the Fig tree becomes drier, the leaves will turn yellow before eventually falling off. To ensure your plant is getting enough water, check the soil with your finger and establish a regular watering schedule.

Other signs of moisture stress include curling, drooping, and crispy-looking leaves. You should water your Fig tree with at least 1 to 1 1/2 inches of water a week.

The Pitfall of Overwatering Your Fig Tree

Overwatering can be a real problem for Fig trees, and it’s clear to see that yours is no exception. The yellowing of the leaves is a sign that the roots are suffocating in waterlogged soil.

To fix this, make sure you’re not watering too frequently and that the soil is allowed to dry out a bit between watering.

You might also want to consider repotting into a well-draining soil mix to prevent this from happening again in the future.

Nutrient Deficiency in the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

Deficiencies of nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, and iron could be responsible for the yellow leaves on your Fiddle Leaf Fig tree.

The most notable culprits, as far as deficiency goes, are nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, and iron. Deficits manifest themselves as chlorosis and yellowing of the leaves around their veins.

This gives them a distinct appearance, making them easier to diagnose. The soil will need better-balanced fertilizer or some good, old-fashioned fertilizer to address nutrient deficiencies.

A nutrient may be inhibited from being absorbed if there is too much of it. It is important to keep everything in balance.

How Lack of Light Can Harm Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

Plants will not produce enough chlorophyll if they do not receive enough light. Fiddle Leaf Fig plants will suffer from yellowing leaves and poor health as a result.

The light should be adequate for your plants but not too much or too direct, depending on the type of plant. The Fiddle Leaf Fig tree should be placed in front of a window that will receive direct morning or afternoon light.

You want a window that faces east, west, or south, preferably without obstructions such as trees or buildings.

Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree Is Getting Too Much Light

Despite the fact that your Fiddle Leaf Fig tree needs light to survive, there is such a thing as too much light. Sunlight that is too bright or excessive will not benefit your plants but instead cause them to overheat and get sunburned.

Unless they love direct sunlight, don’t place plants directly in the sun. In terms of houseplants, make sure that they are at least a few feet away from windows and that they have enough light. The leaves should be given a break from being overheated and yellowing.

Consequences of Improper Soil pH for Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

It is the pH of the soil that determines the preference of any plant, and it ranges anywhere between 1-14, usually somewhere in the middle. The soil’s acidity or alkalinity can cause discomfort if it is too alkaline at 14.

It is possible that the roots of the plant might even have difficulty absorbing the necessary nutrients from the soil. The yellowing of a plant’s leaves can be attributed to this factor.

The ideal soil pH for a Fiddle Leaf Fig tree is between 6.0 and 6.5. It is best to maintain acidic soil for this type of tree. You can test the pH of your soil with a pH tester you can purchase online or at a store.

Yellow leaves are unlikely to appear if pH is within the correct range. You might just be able to balance it out properly if it’s too acidic or too alkaline.

Dealing With Pests and Disease On Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

Pests are usually responsible for yellowing leaves on your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, so you can easily spot them. It is common for yellow spots to appear around bite marks and bullet marks on plant leaves.

It is possible to see yellowing foliage, as well as the pest itself, if you look closely. In general, aphids, whiteflies, scaly bugs, spider mites, and thrips are the most common pests.

There are numerous species of winged bugs, as well as those that look like scales, fluff, or tiny winged insects. A simple pesticide will usually solve most pest problems. Neem oil is a natural pesticide that can replace chemical pesticides.

It may also be possible to remove the stain with simple dish soap and water. There are quite a few pests around, and they are normally easy to get rid of.

Is It Possible for Yellowing leaves To Turn Green Again?

While it’s unlikely that yellow leaves will revert back to their vibrant green color, there’s still hope for your Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree.

By identifying the cause of the yellowing and taking action to address it, you can prevent the spread of other leaves. And with a quick pruning of the yellowed leaves, your Fiddle Leaf Fig tree will have the opportunity for a fresh start and new growth.

Don’t let a few yellow leaves signify the end for your plants, take action and enjoy lush greenery once again.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Fig Tree

What type of environment do Fiddle Leaf Fig trees prefer?

Fiddle Leaf Fig trees prefer bright, indirect sunlight and temperatures between 65-75°F.

How often should I water my Fiddle Leaf Fig tree?

Water your Fiddle Leaf Fig tree when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and water thoroughly until water flows from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.

How much fertilizer should I give my Fiddle Leaf Fig tree?

Fertilize your Fiddle Leaf Fig tree monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength during the growing season.

How often should I prune my Fiddle Leaf Fig tree?

Prune your Fiddle Leaf Fig tree as needed to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or branches.