How do you treat brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves?

Different types of brown spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves signify various issues that require different treatments. The first thing you need to do is identify the spot pattern which helps determine diagnosis. Soft dark spots near the veins of the leaf indicate you have been overwatering your plant; crispy edges on a leaf indicate sunburn. Yellow halos are indicative of fungus, and concentric rings may suggest pest issues. Correct diagnosis prevents the application of the wrong treatment.

Quickly address over-watered areas. Remove the plant from the wet soil. Cut off any black mushy roots using sterilized shears. Repot into dry soil with perlite. Water only a small amount for the next 4 weeks. I saved a fig this way after catching early warning signs.

You can address a sunburned plant by moving it away from direct sun exposure as soon as possible. You can use sheer curtains to filter the light entering the window. Leaves that have been damaged by sunburn will not recover, but any new growth that appears will be healthy. To avoid directly burning your plants in the future, consider the angle of the sun on your windows and adjust them accordingly according to the season. During the growing season, in summer sunlight, you will want even more distance between your plants and the window.

Invoke mechanical controls for unwanted infections. Use copper fungicide and apply it to plants every 7 days if you are experiencing yellow-halo type spots. Be sure to spray both the underside and upper surfaces of the leaves. Increase air circulation around the plant. Reduce watering frequency until the plant begins to recover. Also, please remember to sterilize your tools after handling infected plants.

Eradicate any pests that may be producing concentric rings. Apply a solution of neem oil every 3 days, making sure to cover the stems and undersides of the leaves completely. Reapply this treatment every 3 days for 2 weeks to break their life cycles. Wipe the foliage leaves with insecticidal soap between treatments. If you continue to have persistent pests, then use a systemic insecticide.

Avoid complications by consistently taking care of it moving forward. Water only when the top couple of inches of soil have completely dried out. Ensure it receives bright, indirect light. Inspect the leaves weekly for any early signs of disease. A healthy plant is generally better equipped to resist problems. Your fig will do great with consistent care.

Read the full article: How to Care for Fiddle Leaf Fig: Expert Guide