How to Propagate Fiddle Leaf Fig from cutting– is a simple and effective way to grow new plants from your existing fiddle leaf fig. With the right method, tools, and patience, you can successfully grow a healthy plant from just one stem cutting. I’ve done it many times in my home garden, and I’m going to share my experience and practical tips in this post using simple words and a clear process.
If you love indoor plants like I do, propagating your own is not only cost-effective but also satisfying. The soil propagation method gives long-lasting results and helps the plant adjust better in its final pot. Let’s begin with everything you need to know, step-by-step.
IN THIS ARTICLE
What Is Fiddle Leaf Fig?
The fiddle leaf fig is a popular houseplant known for its large, shiny leaves that look like a violin or fiddle. It’s commonly grown indoors and is admired for its beauty and ability to purify air. It belongs to the Ficus family and grows well in tropical and indoor conditions.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Ficus lyrata |
| Common Name | Fiddle Leaf Fig |
| Ideal Location | Bright, indirect light |
| Watering Need | Moderate, only when soil is dry |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, loose potting mix |
| Propagation Method | Soil propagation using cuttings |
Quick Tips for Soil Propagation
- Use a healthy cutting with 1–2 leaves
- Choose spring or early summer for best results
- Use moist, well-draining soil
- Keep soil lightly moist, not soggy
- Cover with a clear plastic bag to trap humidity
- Place in bright, indirect sunlight
- Wait 4 to 6 weeks for root development
Tools You’ll Need
To propagate fiddle leaf fig in soil, keep these basic tools ready:
- Sharp scissors or pruning shears
- A mature fiddle leaf fig plant
- Small pot with drainage holes
- Potting mix (cocopeat + compost + perlite)
- Rooting hormone (optional)
- Plastic bag or clear container for humidity
- Spray bottle for mist watering
Best Time to Propagate Fiddle Leaf Fig
The best time to propagate is during spring or early summer. This is when the plant is in its active growth period, and it will develop roots faster. Avoid winter months, as low temperatures and low light slow down root formation.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Propagate Fiddle Leaf Fig from Cutting
This is the exact method I use in my home garden, and it has worked for me many times. Follow the steps carefully for the best success rate.
Step 1: Choose the Right Cutting
- Select a healthy stem from your plant
- It should be around 6 to 8 inches long
- Make sure the cutting has 1 or 2 leaves on top
- Avoid using very young or soft stems
Step 2: Make a Clean Cut
- Use sterilized pruning shears or scissors
- Cut just below a node (the thick part where a leaf attaches)
- A clean, slanted cut helps prevent infection and supports root growth
Step 3: Remove Bottom Leaves
- Gently remove the lower leaves
- Leave only the top 1 or 2 leaves
- This helps the cutting focus energy on root development instead of supporting leaves
Step 4: Apply Rooting Hormone (Optional)
- Dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone powder or gel
- This step is optional but increases the chances of faster and stronger root growth
Step 5: Prepare the Pot and Soil
- Take a small pot with drainage holes
- Fill it with a well-draining potting mix
- I personally use a mix of:
- 40% cocopeat
- 30% compost
- 30% perlite or sand
- This mix holds moisture but also allows airflow around roots
Step 6: Plant the Cutting
- Make a small hole in the center of the soil
- Insert the cutting around 2 to 3 inches deep
- Gently press the soil around the stem to hold it upright
Step 7: Maintain Moisture and Humidity
- Mist the soil lightly using a spray bottle
- Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or plastic dome
- This traps humidity and helps roots grow faster
- Make sure to leave a small gap for airflow to avoid mold
Step 8: Provide Indirect Sunlight
- Place the pot in a bright room, but not in direct sunlight
- Direct sun can dry or burn the cutting
- I keep mine near a window with a light curtain to filter the sun
Step 9: Be Patient
- Don’t disturb the cutting by pulling or moving it often
- In 4 to 6 weeks, roots will begin to form
- You can gently tug on the stem to check if it resists—that means roots are growing
Step 10: Transplant to a Bigger Pot
- After roots develop, transplant the cutting into a bigger pot
- Continue with normal fiddle leaf fig care
- Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and give it bright, indirect light
Aftercare for Your New Plant
Once your new fiddle leaf fig is growing in its new pot, follow these simple care tips:
- Water only when needed—never keep the soil soggy
- Keep the plant in consistent lighting conditions
- Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month
- Clean the leaves with a soft damp cloth to remove dust
- Check regularly for pests like spider mites or mealybugs
My Personal Experience & Tips
- Always take 2–3 cuttings at a time. Sometimes one doesn’t root, but others will
- Don’t panic if the leaves droop in the first few days—it’s normal
- Humidity matters a lot—covering the pot helped me get better results
- I tried water propagation too, but the plants rooted in soil adjusted better long-term
- Avoid placing the pot near cold windows or AC vents
Conclustion
Propagating fiddle leaf fig in soil is a natural and dependable method that gives you a strong, well-adjusted plant. It might take a few weeks, but if you follow these steps, you’ll have a brand-new fiddle leaf fig grown with your own hands. I’ve used this method many times and it works wonderfully with just a little care.
Whether you’re a beginner or a plant enthusiast, give soil propagation a try. It’s simple, affordable, and very satisfying.
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