You can easily grow a fiddle leaf fig from a single cutting, which means you can easily grow more fiddle leaf fig trees for FREE using this simple method. In this article, we’ll cover what tools you need to get started, a step-by-step guide on how to propagate fiddle leaf fig cuttings, and tips for success!
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Propagating fiddle leaf figs (Ficus lyrata) in water is an easy and fun way to get more beautiful, full-sized plants for free. The water propagation method has high success rates and offers a simple alternative to rooting cuttings in soil. It allows you to monitor root growth closely and takes the guesswork out of watering. With the right practices, you’ll have baby fiddle leaf figs sprouting lush roots in no time.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about propagating fiddle leaf figs in water successfully, from choosing ideal cuttings to transplanting the rooted plants into soil. Follow these simple steps for amazing results every time.
Step 1: Take Healthy 6-12 Inch Cuttings
Choosing vigorous, healthy cuttings from your fiddle leaf fig is crucial for propagation success. Look for branches or stems that:
- Are 6-12 inches long
- Have 3-5 intact leaves
- Show no signs of damage or disease
Use clean sharp pruners to detach the cuttings just below a node. Remove any lower leaves leaving just 2-3 leaves at the top.
Step 2: Treat the Freshly Cut Stem End
To encourage quick root growth, treat the cut end of your fiddle leaf fig cutting by
- Dipping it in rooting hormone powder/gel (optional but recommended)
- Swabbing it with honey or willow water to deter bacteria
- Lightly searing it with a flame to seal the tissue
This protects the stem tissue and helps it start growing roots faster.
Step 3: Place the Cuttings in Clean Water
Select a clear glass jar, vase, or bottle to easily watch roots emerge. Fill your container with room temperature filtered or distilled water.
Insert your cuttings so the bottom nodes are fully submerged under water. Leave the upper leaves situated above the water line.
Step 4: Provide Bright Indirect Light and Warmth
Place your propagation vases in a warm spot with indirect sunlight around 70°F to 80°F. Direct hot sun will scorch delicate leaves.
North or east facing windows work wonderfully. Supplement with grow lights as needed.
Step 5: Change the Water Weekly
Replace the water weekly to prevent rot-causing bacteria from developing. Only use filtered or distilled water.
Give the vase a quick swish when you change the water to detach any algae and keep it nice and clean.
Step 6: Check for Root Growth
Check your cuttings every few days for new white roots emerging from the nodes under the water. This typically takes 4-8 weeks on average.
Once the roots reach 2-3 inches long, your fiddle leaf fig cutting is ready for soil!
Step 7: Gently Transplant Cuttings to Soil
Carefully remove the rooted cuttings from the water and plant them in small pots with well-draining indoor potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soaked.
Slowly transition the plants to indirect light over 7-10 days to prevent shock. Begin fertilizing when you notice new growth.
Tips for Propagating Fiddle Leaf Figs in Water
Follow these tips to maximize your propagation success:
- Take multiple cuttings to increase your chances of some rooting.
- Change water before it gets cloudy to prevent rot-causing bacteria.
- Avoid direct sun which can overheat water and damage tender cuttings.
- Be patient – rooting takes 1-3 months. Avoid disturbing the cuttings.
- Mist cuttings daily to provide needed humidity.
- Once rooted, slowly acclimate to soil over 7-10 days.
- Use a houseplant mix amended with perlite for drainage.
With attentive care and persistence, propagating fiddle leaf figs in water is an easy, fun way to expand your plant collection for free!
Troubleshooting Common Fiddle Leaf Fig Propagation Problems
While water propagation is fairly straightforward, issues can sometimes come up. Watch for these common problems and how to fix them:
Rotting Stem
If the stem becomes brown, slimy, or hollow, it’s rotting from bacteria or fungi. Start over with a fresh, healthy cutting. Change the water more frequently.
Moldy Growth
Gray fuzzy mold on leaves indicates the water or environment is too humid. Improve air circulation. Replace the water more often.
Yellowing Leaves
If leaves turn light green or yellow, the cutting needs more sunlight. Move it to a brighter spot or add a grow light.
No Root Growth
Cuttings that don’t root after 3 months may be too old. Use younger stems. Ensure nodes are submerged.
Leggy Growth
If new growth is sparse and leggy, increase sunlight exposure. Prune off elongated stems.
With attentive troubleshooting, you can overcome any propagation issues that pop up.
Caring for Fiddle Leaf Figs Grown from Cuttings
Rooting fiddle leaf fig cuttings in water is just the beginning. Follow these tips to grow strong, healthy plants:
- After transplanting to soil, use a diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-3 months.
- Prune back leggy stems to encourage bushy growth.
- Provide bright, indirect light from an east or west window.
- Water thoroughly only when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Mist leaves daily to boost humidity.
- Repot annually in spring with fast-draining potting mix.
- Monitor closely for pests like mealybugs.
- Rotate the plant periodically for even growth.
- Wipe leaves often with a damp cloth to remove dust.
- Avoid drafty areas that can damage leaves.
With high humidity, ample light, frequent watering and attentive care, your propagated fiddle leaf figs will flourish!
Fun Ideas for Displaying Your Propagated Fiddle Leaf Figs
Once your propagated fiddles are established, get creative with displaying them by:
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Grouping several small fiddles together in one large basket or planter for major visual impact.
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Letting plants trail over mantels or shelves for a lovely cascading look.
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Using tall fiddles as living room corner plants or floor plants.
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Placing smaller fiddles on staggered height plant stands for dimension.
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Mixing fiddle leaf figs in with other plants like pothos or philodendrons.
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Adding decorative trellises and training the stems to climb.
With propagated fiddle leaf figs, the possibilities are endless! Have fun designing eye-catching displays.
The worst that can happen when water propagating fiddle leaf figs is a few cuttings fail to root. But with multiple cuttings and proper techniques, you should have a very high success rate. Enjoy watching your plants flourish!
Steps to Propagate a Fiddle Leaf Fig in Water:
- Take the Cutting:
- The first step is perhaps the most important. Using clean and sharp pruning shears or scissors, make a clean cut just below a leaf node. This is where roots will form.
- Remove any leaves or leaflets from the lower part of the cutting, leaving one or two leaves at the top.
- Optional: Apply Rooting Hormone:
- Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder or gel if desired. This step can help stimulate root development.
- Place in Water:
- Fill your clean glass or vase with enough filtered or distilled water to submerge the leaf node and a portion of the stem. The cutting should sit in water, but avoid fully submerging the leaves.
- Monitor the Water Level:
- Check the water level regularly to ensure the base of the cutting remains submerged. Add more water as needed to maintain the desired level.
- For best results, change the water every few weeks to prevent stagnation and ensure freshness.
- Provide Bright Indirect Light:
- Place the container with the cutting in a well-lit location with indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can be too intense and may harm the cutting.
- If you do not have enough natural indoor light, consider adding a small grow light like this clamp on desk LED grow lamp!
- Be Patient:
- Roots should begin to develop in 6-8 weeks, but can sometimes take up to a few months to develop. Check for new root growth through the vase or pull the cutting out to inspect.
- Transplant:
- Once the cutting has developed a healthy root system and has started to produce new leaves, it’s ready to be transplanted into a small pot with well-draining soil.
- Handle the rooted cutting carefully during transplantation to avoid damaging the new roots.
- Acclimate Gradually:
- When moving the rooted cutting to soil, gradually acclimate it to its new environment by increasing its exposure to light and adjusting the watering routine as needed.
- Wait a few months before transplanting your new fiddle leaf fig tree into a decorative pot to prevent shock.
Remember that success with water propagation can vary, and not all cuttings will root successfully. Propagating multiple cuttings can increase your chances of success. Consistency in maintaining water quality and light conditions is crucial throughout the process.
How To Avoid Mold When Propagating Fiddle Leaf Figs
Mold can be a common issue when propagating fiddle leaf fig cuttings, especially if the humidity levels are too high or if the cuttings are kept in excessively moist conditions. To avoid mold while propagating fiddle leaf fig cuttings, follow these steps:
- Use Clean Tools and Containers:
- Start with clean and sterilized tools such as pruning shears or scissors.
- Use a clean and sanitized pot or container for planting your cuttings.
- Choose Well-Draining Soil:
- Ensure the potting mix you use is well-draining. A mix of perlite, peat moss, and regular potting soil allows excess moisture to escape, reducing the risk of mold.
- Properly Space Cuttings:
- Avoid overcrowding the cuttings in the pot. Give each cutting enough space to allow air circulation around the leaves and stems.
- Avoid Overwatering:
- Mold thrives in damp, stagnant conditions. Water the cuttings sparingly to keep the soil consistently lightly moist but not waterlogged.
- Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom of the container.
- Provide Adequate Ventilation:
- Ensure there is some airflow around the propagating area. You can achieve this by:
- Opening the plastic bag or removing the plastic wrap for short periods each day to allow fresh air in.
- Using a small fan set on low nearby to gently circulate the air around the cuttings.
- Ensure there is some airflow around the propagating area. You can achieve this by:
- Maintain Appropriate Humidity:
- While maintaining humidity is essential for root development, it’s important not to overdo it. You can reduce the risk of mold by:
- Using a clear plastic bag or wrap to create a mini greenhouse effect for the cuttings. However, periodically vent it to prevent excessive humidity buildup.
- If mold does appear, remove the plastic covering and allow the cuttings to breathe for a while.
- While maintaining humidity is essential for root development, it’s important not to overdo it. You can reduce the risk of mold by:
- Monitor and Address Mold Promptly:
- Keep a close eye on the cuttings for any signs of mold. If you notice mold growth, take immediate action:
- Remove affected leaves or cuttings with clean, sterilized scissors or shears.
- Sprinkle a thin layer of cinnamon or powdered sulfur on the soil surface. These natural antifungal agents can help prevent mold growth.
- Increase ventilation to discourage mold.
- Keep a close eye on the cuttings for any signs of mold. If you notice mold growth, take immediate action:
- Maintain Good Hygiene:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the cuttings or working with the propagating setup to prevent introducing contaminants.
- Choose the Right Location:
- Place the propagating setup in a clean and well-ventilated area. Avoid locations with excessive humidity or poor airflow.
By following these steps, you can create a favorable environment for propagating fiddle leaf fig cuttings while minimizing the risk of mold growth. Monitoring your cuttings regularly is key to catching and addressing mold issues promptly.
Propagating Your Fiddle Leaf Fig is EASY! Here’s How
FAQ
Where to cut a fiddle leaf fig for propagation?
- Identify Healthy Nodes: Nodes are the bumps on the stem where leaves grow.
- Cut Below the Node: Make a clean cut using sharp, sterilized pruning shears just below a healthy leaf node.
- Include Multiple Nodes: Aim for a cutting that includes at least 3 nodes.
- Remove Bottom Leaves: Remove the leaves on the bottom half of the cutting to prevent rot and encourage root growth.
- Optional: 45-degree Angle Cut: Some people prefer a 45-degree angle cut as it increases surface area for rooting.
- Rooting Hormone/Promoter: Consider using rooting hormone or a propagation promoter to encourage root development.
- Propagate in Water or Soil: You can propagate fiddle leaf fig cuttings in water or directly in well-draining soil.
- Water Propagation: Place the cutting in a glass of water, ensuring the nodes are submerged and leaves are above the surface. Change the water weekly to prevent stagnation.
- Soil Propagation: Plant the cutting in well-draining soil, keeping it moist until roots develop.
- Rooting Time: Allow the cutting to root for a few weeks before transplanting it to a larger pot.
Can I propagate a fiddle leaf fig from a single leaf?
Another propagation method popular for fiddle leaf figs is putting a cutting or single leaf in water. Lots of people have great success with this method, and it’s fun because you can see the rooting progress instead of having to wait to see growth or tug on the cutting. Plus they look pretty in the glass container.
Will fig cuttings root in water?
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Choose Healthy Cuttings:Select green, healthy cuttings from the current season’s growth, avoiding older, brown, or woody stems.
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Prepare the Cuttings:
- Take a cutting that is at least 6 inches long.
- Remove all but a few leaves from the bottom of the cutting.
- Cut the bottom of the stem at a slant.
- Take a cutting that is at least 6 inches long.
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Place in Water:
- Fill a clean glass or jar with filtered or distilled water.
- Submerge a portion of the stem and at least one node in the water, but avoid fully submerging the leaves.
- Fill a clean glass or jar with filtered or distilled water.
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Water Maintenance:
- Change the water every few days to prevent stagnation and the growth of algae or bacteria.
- Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright, but indirect light location.
- Change the water every few days to prevent stagnation and the growth of algae or bacteria.
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Monitor for Root Development:
- Roots should start to form within a few weeks, but it can take longer.
- Once a good root system has developed (3-4 inches long), transplant the cutting into a pot or directly into the ground.
- Roots should start to form within a few weeks, but it can take longer.