To get rid of fiddle leaf fig fungus, the first step is to gently remove as much of the old soil from the roots as possible. This will help to eliminate any fungal spores that may be present. I usually do this by carefully loosening the soil around the roots with my fingers or a small tool, being careful not to damage the roots in the process.
As I remove the old soil, I also keep an eye out for any mushy or rotting roots. These are a sign of root rot, which is often caused by over-watering or poor drainage. If I come across any mushy roots, I prune them back to healthy tissue using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. This helps to prevent further spread of the fungus and encourages new, healthy root growth.
If I notice any fungus growing on the roots, I make sure to remove that as well. I gently scrape it off using a clean tool or my fingers, being careful not to damage the roots. It’s important to remove all traces of fungus to prevent its spread and recurrence.
Once the roots have been cleaned and pruned, I repot the fiddle leaf fig into a clean pot with drainage holes. Proper drainage is crucial for preventing over-watering, which can lead to fungal growth. I choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one to allow for root growth, but not too big as that can lead to waterlogging.
When choosing a potting mix, I opt for a fast-draining soil specifically formulated for houseplants. This helps to prevent excess moisture around the roots, reducing the risk of fungal growth. I make sure to thoroughly moisten the soil before placing the fiddle leaf fig in the pot, as this helps to settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact.
After repotting, I place the fiddle leaf fig in a bright, indirect light location. Fungal growth is often favored by dark and damp conditions, so providing adequate light and airflow can help prevent its recurrence.
To further prevent fungal growth, I make sure to water the fiddle leaf fig properly. This means allowing the top inch or so of soil to dry out before watering again. Over-watering can create a favorable environment for fungal growth, so it’s important to strike a balance and not let the soil stay too wet for extended periods.
Getting rid of fiddle leaf fig fungus involves gently removing old soil from the roots, pruning any mushy or rotting roots, and removing any visible fungus. Repotting into a clean pot with drainage holes and using a fast-draining soil helps to prevent over-watering and fungal growth. Proper watering and providing adequate light and airflow are also important in preventing the recurrence of fungus.