Hi there:) I have just joined the app and the community. I used dr plant to investigate the reason for my fiddle leaf fig plant health issues. It was diagnosed with the overwatering. I am not sure if its correct as I try not to water too much, especially in winter. The leafs are brown (tips) but not rotting anywhere. Can someone help me with the diagnostics ? It has also lost leaves and got some new ones.
So I’m not 100% certain about this but some of my otherwise healthy plants have the same issue and I’ve read that it’s caused by my use of tap water, which contains chlorine. Some plants are more sensitive than others but mine have continued to grow just fine despite the brown tips. There’s a very thorough article from Missouri botanical garden The most relevant section: Chlorine and fluoride Ordinary tap water, well water, rain water, and snow melt are all okay to use if warmed to room temperature. Chlorine added to drinking water does not harm most plants but some may develop brown leaf tips over an extended period of use. If desired, to remove chlorine from tap water let it sit in an open-top bucket for 24 hours to allow the chlorine to evaporate before using it to water plants. This also allows the water to warm to room temperature. Fluoride cannot, however, be removed from water by letting it sit but it is only harmful to a few sensitive plants such as spider plants and dracaenas. It can cause brown spots on leaves or brown leaf tips. These sensitive plants should be watered with rainwater if the brown tips or spots are problematic. Damaged leaves will not recover. Distilled water or water collected from a dehumidifier can also be used to water plants that may be sensitive to fluoride, chlorine or hard minerals in tap water. Along with rain water these are wise choices for watering carnivorous plants and terrariums.
2 LikesThe articles title is “How to Water Indoor Plants” planta wont let me link to it
1 LikeAll that said I’m not sure if fiddle leaf figs are sensitive in this way
1 Like Thank you so much I will try that. I use tap water so it might be that. Will read that article as well, hopefully it will help. Thanks!:)
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ficus are not sensitive to tap water in my experience. they are however extremely sensitive to drafts and dry air. the damage on this leaf looks like it has lost significant amounts of moisture through transpiration. i’d recommend getting a hygrometer to check on the humidity in your home and a humidifier if necessary
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It could be a sunburn or a humidity issue
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