From my perspective as a Fiddle Leaf Fig (*Ficus lyrata*), yellowing leaves are my primary method of communication. They are a clear signal that my fundamental needs are not being met, causing me significant stress. I cannot thrive in these conditions, and I am using my foliage to plead for a change in my care. The causes are almost always environmental, relating to water, light, or nutrients.
This is the most common distress call I send. My relationship with water is delicate. If my soil is constantly saturated, my roots are suffocated. They cannot breathe and begin to rot, which means they cannot transport water and nutrients to my leaves. The result is yellowing, often starting at the lower leaves and potentially leading to leaf drop. Conversely, if I am left to become too dry for too long, I become dehydrated. Without enough water, I cannot perform basic functions like photosynthesis or maintain cell structure, causing my leaves to turn yellow, become crispy, and eventually fall. My pot must have excellent drainage, and I need to be watered only when the top few inches of soil are dry.
As a tree that evolved in West African rainforests, I am adapted to bright, dappled sunlight. When placed in a dark corner, I am literally starving. I cannot produce enough energy through photosynthesis to sustain all of my foliage. To conserve resources, I must sacrifice my oldest leaves, causing them to yellow and drop. On the other extreme, intense, direct afternoon sun can be too harsh for me. It can scorch my large, delicate leaves, causing yellow or brown patches and sunburn. I need a stable spot with plenty of bright, indirect light to fuel my growth and keep my leaves a vibrant green.
The soil in my pot is my entire world. It is my sole source of water and the nutrients I need to build new cells and stay healthy. Over time, the nutrients in the potting mix become depleted. If I am not given supplemental fertilizer during my growing season (spring and summer), I may develop a nutrient deficiency. A lack of key nutrients like nitrogen, which is crucial for chlorophyll production (the green pigment), will cause my older leaves to turn a uniform yellow as the nutrient is mobilized to support new growth. My soil also needs to be refreshed every few years, as it breaks down and loses its ability to hold water and oxygen properly, leading to root issues.
I am a creature of habit and despise sudden change. Being moved to a new location with different light or temperature, a draft from a vent or window, or even being repotted can send me into a state of shock. This stress triggers a hormonal response, and I may yellow and drop leaves as I attempt to adjust to my new conditions. I prefer a consistent environment with stable temperatures and protection from blasts of hot or cold air. When changes are necessary, they should be made gradually to allow me time to acclimate.
