Fiddle leaf fig is a popular houseplant that is known for its large, glossy leaves and elegant presence. It’s no wonder why many plant enthusiasts are looking to propagate this beauty! Propagating a fiddle leaf fig may seem daunting at first, but it’s actually quite simple if you follow the proper steps. In this blog post, we’ll go over everything you need to know about how to propagate a fiddle leaf fig successfully.
What is propagation?
Propagation is the process of creating new plants from existing ones. There are several methods of propagation that can be used for different types of plants, such as division, cuttings, layering and seeds. For fiddle leaf figs specifically, the most common method of propagation is through stem cuttings.
When should I take stem cuttings?
The best time to take stem cuttings from your fiddle leaf fig plant is during its active growth phase in spring or summer when the plant has plenty of energy reserves stored up. Additionally, choose healthy branches with several nodes (the point where leaves attach to stems) and make sure they’re at least six inches long.
How do I prepare my cutting?
Once you’ve selected your branch for cutting, use sharp pruning shears or scissors to make a clean 45-degree angle slice right below a node. Remove any lower leaves around the bottom two-thirds of your cutting and dip it in rooting hormone powder before placing it into moist soil mix (a combination of peat moss and perlite). Make sure there’s enough moisture in the soil without allowing waterlogging since too much water will cause root rot.
How do I care for my new cutting?
To ensure successful rooting after planting your fiddle leaf fig cutting:
1. Use clear plastic bags: Covering your potted propagations with plastic bags creates an ideal greenhouse effect by trapping humidity near their foliage promoting faster growth rates.
2. Keep them warm: Maintain temperatures ranging between 70 to 75°F to keep the cuttings from getting too cold since they don’t have strong roots yet.
3. Provide a bright, filtered light: It’s essential to provide your propagations enough sunlight, but not direct exposure that might burn their foliage. Fiddle leaf figs prefer bright, indirect light with little or no direct sun.
4. Water regularly: Avoid overwatering and ensure your newly propagated plant stays evenly moist by watering when the top inch of soil feels dry.
How long will it take for my cutting to root?
It can take up to several months before you start seeing new growth on your fiddle leaf fig cutting as it develops its own root system. The success of propagation depends on various factors such as temperature, humidity, and how healthy the mother plant is.
Final thoughts
Propagating a fiddle leaf fig is an exciting project that can be both rewarding and challenging at the same time. Rooting stem cuttings requires patience, attention to detail and following these critical steps discussed in this post will assist you in achieving success! Remember also always choose healthy branches with several nodes when selecting which branch(es) you’ll propagate from so that each one has enough energy reserves stored within them needed during their initial rooting stage where they’re finding their feet (roots).
