The Best Soil Mixture For Fiddle Leaf Figs

Last Updated on April 27, 2022

The best soil mixture for fiddle leaf figs should be well-draining and high in organic matter to provide this plant with the right nutrients throughout its growing season.

The fiddle leaf fig, Morus rubra, is a deciduous tree native to eastern Asia that has been grown in gardens around the world for centuries as an ornamental tree. It is also used as a source of food for humans and animals.

Fiddle leaf figs (Ficus lyrata) are native to eastern Africa but have spread to other regions where they are now commonly cultivated. They are also naturalized in parts of North America and Australia.

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In addition to being cultivated as an ornamental tree, fiddle leaf figs can be used as a source of food for humans and animals. The plant’s edible fruits, which are harvested in the fall, are eaten fresh or dried.

In Chinese folk medicine, the fiddle leaf fig was believed to help prevent cancer. Fiddle leaf figs grow from the large, compound, evergreen leaves with numerous leaflets and tendrils. The leaves of the fiddle leaf fig resemble those of the fig tree, and they both belong to the same family, Moraceae. Fiddle leaf figs grow in dense, rounded clusters called umbels. Figs grow in pairs on the stems, each pair producing a single fruit.

The fiddle leaf fig can grow in temperate climates as well as tropical areas. In the United States, it is found mostly along the East Coast, from Maine to Florida. The fiddle leaf fig is a deciduous tree that grows up to 30 m tall, with a dense crown and an oval shape. Its leaves are compound, with 7–25 leaflets per leaflet, each with a broad, palmately lobed margin. The flowers are produced in clusters, each cluster consisting of 2–5 individual flowers. Figs start fruiting after about 5 years. The fruits are usually small (2–4 cm), round or oval, and green when immature, turning black as they ripen. They contain 1–3 seeds. Fiddle leaf figs are cultivated for their fruits, which can be eaten fresh, dried, and made into jams and preserves.

They can grow up to 25 feet tall and 20 feet wide, but are typically much smaller in cultivation. They can be grown in full sun or partial shade and prefer moist soil. In addition to their decorative value, fiddle leaf figs are valued for their edible fruit.

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The Best Soil Mixture For Fiddle Leaf Figs

Growing fiddle figs requires the best soil mixture that includes

  • High-quality compost. Compost is excellent as it provides the soil with the required nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, as well as helps to build a good microbial population. The mix should be free from weed seeds and not overly rich in water. It can be made from lawn clippings, leaves, kitchen scraps, or even chicken manure.
  • Highly porous topsoil. The soil should have a good organic matter content, which means a high proportion of soil particles are smaller than 2mm. To achieve this, the soil needs to be mixed well and then sieved to remove stones and other larger particles.
  • Commercial potting mix.  This is a mixture of sand, peat, and compost. It is often used for growing potted plants, but can also be used as a soil mixture for fiddle leaf figs.  Commercial potting mix has the best drainage capacity and enough nutrients for the plants.

Can Miracle Grow be used on fiddle leaf figs

Characteristics Of The Best Soil Mixture For Fiddle Leaf Figs

The above soils are the best soil mixture for fiddle leaf fig because they have the following characteristics.

  • Well-draining.  The best soil for growing this plant must be well-draining to allow the water to flow rather than hold it in.
  • Moisture retentive. As much as it allows the water to drain, the soil must hold enough moisture for the plant until the next watering schedule.
  • High organic matter. The soil should contain high organic matter that provides all the necessary nutrients to the plants.
  • Compatible with the species.  The soil must be compatible with growing the fiddle fig leaf.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cactus soil for my fiddle leaf fig?

Yes, but you will need to amend the soil with a high-phosphorus fertilizer

Can I use succulent soil for fiddle leaf fig?

Yes. Succulent soil is not specific to fiddle leaf figs and will grow well in the soil of any other succulents you choose to plant. However, if you are growing your fiddle leaf figs in a pot or container, then you may wish to use succulent soil as it contains ingredients that can be washed away by water.

Is peat moss good for fiddle leaf fig?

The answer is no. Fiddle leaf figs are a species of tree that likes to grow in acidic soil. Peat moss is an organic material that is generally not acidic and will therefore not promote the growth of fiddle leaf figs. In fact, peat moss will encourage the growth of mosses that compete with fiddle leaf figs for light and nutrients.

Can you use Osmocote on fiddle leaf fig?

No. Osmocote is not registered for use on fiddle leaf fig, although it has been used on other species of Ficus. Is Osmocote safe to use on my plants? Yes. Osmocote is a slow-release fertilizer, and as such, will not burn or harm your plants. It is also non-toxic.

Can Miracle Grow be used on fiddle leaf figs?

Yes, Miracle-Gro® is safe and effective for growing fiddle leaf figs. Fiddle leaf figs are not a true fruit and the fruits are not consumed by birds or animals. So if you do not want to attract pests, you can grow fiddle leaf figs in your garden without worry. 

Take-home For The Best Soil Mixture For Fiddle Leaf Figs

Fiddle Leaf Fig is a great plant for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. The roots of this tree are very deep, and because they are shallow-rooted, they can be easily moved. They are also easy to transplant from one location to another. The leaves of the Fiddle Leaf Fig are like the leaves of Japanese maple, and they look fantastic when placed in the garden.

The best soil mixture for fiddle leaf figs is the one that drains well, has enough nutrients, and retains moisture.

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