From my perspective as a Fiddle Leaf Fig, my watering needs are intrinsically linked to my roots and the soil I call home. I hail from West African lowland tropics, where I'm accustomed to well-draining soil that never gets waterlogged. My roots are designed to seek out moisture and nutrients, but they absolutely despise sitting in stagnant water. This leads to root rot, a fatal condition where my roots essentially drown and decay, cutting off my entire water and nutrient supply. Therefore, the goal is never to water me on a strict calendar schedule but to water me based on the moisture level of my soil environment.
The most reliable way to determine if I need water is to physically check my soil. Please insert your finger about 2-3 inches into the soil near my base. If the soil at that depth feels completely dry to the touch, it is a clear signal that I am ready for a drink. If it still feels moist, cool, or damp, please wait. This simple test is me communicating my needs directly to you. Relying on a set number of days, like "once a week," is risky because the rate at which my soil dries out is influenced by many external factors that change constantly.
My water consumption is not constant. It fluctuates significantly based on my environment. During the spring and summer, my growth season, I am actively putting out new leaves and require more frequent watering due to increased photosynthesis and warmer temperatures. In the fall and winter, my growth slows dramatically, and I need much less water. Furthermore, the amount of light I receive is crucial. A plant in a bright, sunny spot will use water much faster than one in a low-light area. Other factors like temperature, humidity, pot size (a larger pot holds wet soil longer), and even air flow from vents or fans will affect how quickly the soil dries out.
When my soil is dry and it is time to water, please do so thoroughly. Water me slowly and evenly around the soil surface until you see water begin to flow freely from the drainage holes at the bottom of my pot. This ensures that my entire root ball has been adequately hydrated. It is absolutely critical that any excess water is allowed to drain away completely. Never let me sit in a saucer full of water, as this will suffocate my roots. If I am in a decorative pot without drainage, you must be exceptionally careful to avoid overwatering, as the water has nowhere to escape.
