Fiddle leaf figs are a popular houseplant, but they can be tricky to care for. One of the most common problems fiddle leaf figs face is holes in their leaves. There are a few different reasons why this happens, and thankfully, there are also a few different solutions. Keep reading to learn more about the four most common causes of holes in fiddle leaf fig leaves and what you can do to fix the problem.
Common Causes of Holes in Fiddle Leaf Fig Leaves
There are several reasons why your fiddle leaf fig’s leaves may have holes in them. Here are four of the most common causes and solutions:
Insects: If you see small holes in the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig, it’s likely that insects are to blame. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully. 1. The best way to get rid of insects is to use an insecticide.
Disease: Another common cause of holes in fiddle leaf fig leaves is disease. If you think your plant may be sick, it’s best to take it to a professional for diagnosis and treatment. 2.
If you think your plant is stressed, try moving it to a different location or adjusting your care routine. 3. Environmental stress: Sometimes, holes in fiddle leaf fig leaves are caused by environmental stressors like too much sun, too much water, or too much fertilizer.
Physical damage: If you see large holes in the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig, it’s likely that the plant has been damaged. If your plant has been damaged, there’s not much you can do except wait for it to heal. 4. This can happen if the plant is dropped or if something sharp comes into contact with the leaves.
If you’re not sure what’s causing the holes in your fiddle leaf fig’s leaves, it’s best to consult a professional.
[1] Insect Damage
One of the most common problems that fiddle leaf fig owners face is insect damage. There are a few different insects that can cause holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves, and each one has a different solution.
The first insect that can cause damage to your fiddle leaf fig is the leaf miner. Leaf miners are small larvae that tunnel through the leaves of plants, causing the leaves to turn brown and eventually die. The best way to control leaf miners is to remove them by hand.
The best way to control caterpillars is to use an insecticide. The second insect that can cause holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves is the caterpillar. Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies, and they love to eat fiddle leaf fig leaves.
The best way to control aphids is to use an insecticide. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig to turn yellow and eventually die. The third insect that can cause holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves is the aphid.
If you have holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves, chances are one of these three insects is to blame. Luckily, all of them can be controlled with the proper treatment.
Irregular Holes
There are a few reasons why your fiddle leaf fig might have holes in its leaves. Lastly, pests could be to blame. If you see small holes in the leaves, that’s a sign that pests are eating away at your plant. If the leaves are scorched or yellowed, that’s a sign that they’re getting too much direct sunlight. One possibility is that your plant is not getting enough water. Another possibility is that your plant is getting too much sun. If the leaves are dry and crinkled, that’s a sure sign that your plant is thirsty.
If you suspect pests are to blame, try using a natural pesticide to get rid of them. If you’re not sure what’s causing the holes in your fiddle leaf fig’s leaves, the best course of action is to take a closer look at your plant’s care routine. Make sure you’re watering it regularly and giving it the right amount of sunlight.
Irregular Tunnels are Left by Liriomyza Melanogaster
The fly lays its eggs inside the leaves, and the larvae tunnel through the leaf tissue as they feed. This can cause the leaves to develop irregular holes and can eventually kill the leaf if enough damage is done. Liriomyza melanogaster, also known as the fiddle leaf fig miner, is a small fly that feeds on the leaves of fiddle leaf figs.
This will make it less attractive to the fly. Finally, you can use an insecticide to kill the larvae. First, make sure that your plant is healthy and free of stress. There are a few things that you can do to prevent or control this pest. Second, you can try using a sticky trap to catch the adults before they have a chance to lay their eggs.
By taking some preventive measures, you can keep your plants healthy and free of damage. If you have fiddle leaf figs, it is important to be on the lookout for this pest.
How to Control and Manage Liriomyza Melanogaster
The fly lays its eggs in the leaves, and the larvae tunnel through the leaf tissue as they feed. Liriomyza melanogaster, also known as the fiddle leaf fig miner, is a small fly that feeds on the leaves of fiddle leaf fig trees. This results in small, round holes in the leaves.
There are a few things you can do to control and manage Liriomyza melanogaster. First, make sure to keep your fiddle leaf fig tree well-watered. Finally, you can use an insecticide to kill the larvae. Second, prune off any affected leaves. The larvae are more likely to survive and thrive in dry conditions. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully. This will help to prevent the spread of the infestation.
Bush Crickets
If you notice holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves, it’s likely due to one of four causes: pests, disease, poor drainage, or too much sun.
Common pests include aphids, scale, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil. Pests are the most common cause of holes in fiddle leaf fig leaves.
Disease is another common cause of holes in fiddle leaf fig leaves. The most common diseases that affect fiddle leaf figs are fungal diseases like leaf spot and powdery mildew. These diseases can be controlled with regular applications of fungicidal soap or neem oil.
If your soil is too dense or doesn’t drain well, the roots will suffocate and the leaves will turn yellow and drop off. Fiddle leaf figs need well-drained soil to thrive. Poor drainage is another common cause of holes in fiddle leaf fig leaves. To improve drainage, mix in some perlite or sand.
To protect your fiddle leaf fig from too much sun, move it to a spot that gets bright, indirect light. If they get too much direct sun, the leaves will scorch and turn brown. Too much sun is the last common cause of holes in fiddle leaf fig leaves. Fiddle leaf figs need bright, indirect light to thrive.
How to Control and Manage Brush Crickets on Fiddle Leaf Fig
While they’re not harmful to humans, they can do a lot of damage to your plants. These pests are small, brown, and love to munch on leaves. If you’re finding holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves, it’s likely due to brush crickets.
Brush crickets love to hide in dark, moist places. This will help to kill any existing pests and prevent new ones from moving in. First, make sure to keep your plants clean and free of debris. Second, consider using a natural insecticide like neem oil. Finally, make sure to keep an eye on your plants and inspect them regularly for signs of damage. There are a few things you can do to control and manage brush crickets.
With a little bit of effort, you can keep brush crickets from taking over your fiddle leaf fig. By following these tips, you can enjoy your plants for years to come.
Slugs and Snails
These pests are attracted to the moisture in the soil and the leaves of the plant, and can cause holes in the leaves. The best way to control slugs and snails is to remove them by hand, and to keep the area around the plant free of debris where they can hide. Slugs and snails are common pests in gardens and can cause damage to plants, including fiddle leaf figs.
How to Eradicate Slugs and Snails from your Fiddle Leaf Fig
There are a few things you can do to eradicate them from your plant. They can cause holes in the leaves and can be difficult to get rid of. Slugs and snails are a common problem for fiddle leaf figs.
This is a natural product that will kill the slugs and snails. You can also use a product like Neem oil. One way to get rid of slugs and snails is to pick them off the plant. This is a natural oil that will repel the slugs and snails. This can be time-consuming, but it is the most effective way to get rid of them. Another way to get rid of them is to use a product like Sluggo.
This will create a barrier that the slugs and snails will not be able to cross. You can do this by using diatomaceous earth or sand. You can also try to create a barrier around your plant.
They will be able to help you get rid of the problem for good. If you have a serious problem with slugs and snails, you may need to contact a professional.
Caterpillars
These little pests can quickly strip a leaf of its foliage, leaving behind unsightly holes. While caterpillars are a common problem for fiddle leaf figs, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them. If you’ve ever found a caterpillar on your fiddle leaf fig, you know they can cause some serious damage.
Once you’ve identified the caterpillar, you can take steps to get rid of it. The first step is to identify the type of caterpillar you’re dealing with. There are many different types of caterpillars that can infest fiddle leaf figs, so it’s important to know which one you’re dealing with.
This can be a time-consuming process, but it’s the most effective way to get rid of them. One way to get rid of caterpillars is to pick them off by hand. If you have a small infestation, you may be able to get rid of the caterpillars with a handheld vacuum.
If you have a larger infestation, you may need to use an insecticide. There are many different types of insecticides available, so be sure to choose one that is specifically designed to kill caterpillars. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully to avoid harming your fiddle leaf fig.
Caterpillars can be a nuisance, but there are ways to get rid of them. By taking some time to identify the caterpillars and taking steps to get rid of them, you can keep your fiddle leaf fig looking its best.
How to Get Rid of Caterpillars from your Fiddle Leaf Fig
If you’re finding caterpillars on your fiddle leaf fig, don’t worry – there are a few things you can do to get rid of them! First, try to remove them by hand. You may also want to try using a natural remedy, such as neem oil. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully. If that doesn’t work, you can use an insecticide. Whatever method you choose, be sure to keep an eye on your plant and remove any caterpillars you see as soon as possible.
Earwigs (Forficula auriculata)
If you notice small holes in the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig (Forficula auriculata), it’s likely due to earwigs (Forficula auriculata). To get rid of earwigs, try using a pesticide or trapping them with sticky traps. These pests are attracted to the moisture in the leaves, and they feed by puncturing the leaves with their sharp mouthparts. While earwigs don’t usually cause serious damage to fiddle leaf figs, they can be a nuisance.
How to Control and Manage Earwig Infestations
If you see them, you’ll need to take action to get rid of them. Look for insects that are about 1/2 inch long and have pincers on their rear end. If you’re dealing with earwigs, the first step is to identify the problem.
There are a few things you can do to control and manage earwig infestations:
Use a pesticide – There are a number of pesticides on the market that will kill earwigs. Be sure to follow the directions on the label and apply the pesticide according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 1.
Just be sure to empty the traps regularly so they don’t become breeding grounds for the earwigs. Set up traps – You can make your own earwig traps using a variety of materials, including cardboard boxes, plastic bottles, and even newspapers. 2.
So, if you can eliminate their food sources, you’ll also eliminate the earwigs. This may mean removing mulch, leaves, and other debris from your yard, and keeping your gutters clean. 3. Eliminate their food sources – Earwigs are attracted to moist, decaying organic matter.
You can also release ladybugs into your garden, as they’re natural predators of earwigs. 4. Use a natural predator – If you have chickens, ducks, or other poultry, they can help control earwigs by eating them.
By following these steps, you can get rid of earwigs and keep them from coming back.
Flea Beetles
If you’ve noticed small, round holes in the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig, you’re not alone. These pests, called flea beetles, are common in warm, humid climates and can be difficult to get rid of.
There are a few things you can do to get rid of flea beetles, including:
Use a pesticide. 1.
Remove infested leaves. 2.
3. Keep your plant healthy by watering and fertilizing regularly.
Check for pests regularly and take action as soon as you see them. 4.
With a little effort, you can get rid of them and enjoy your beautiful fiddle leaf fig again. If you have flea beetles, don’t despair.
How to Get Rid of Flea Beetles from your Fiddle Leaf Fig
Be sure to follow the directions carefully, and always test it on a small area of the plant first to make sure it won’t cause any damage. You can also try placing a piece of sticky tape around the base of the plant, which will trap the beetles as they try to climb up. First, try spraying the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. If all else fails, you may need to resort to using a chemical insecticide. If you’re dealing with flea beetles on your fiddle leaf fig, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them.
Oval or Angular Lesions
There are two types of lesions that can occur on fiddle leaf fig leaves – oval and angular.
Oval lesions are usually caused by fungal diseases, such as Alternaria or Cercospora. These diseases can be controlled with fungicides.
These diseases can be controlled with bactericides. Angular lesions are usually caused by bacteria, such as Pseudomonas or Xanthomonas.
How to Control Anthracnose
There are several things that you can do to control anthracnose on your fiddle leaf fig. Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can affect many different types of plants, including fiddle leaf figs. These lesions can eventually lead to the death of the leaves if left untreated. The disease is characterized by the formation of small, dark lesions on the leaves of the plant.
If you live in an area with high humidity, you may need to water your plant more frequently. Anthracnose thrives in wet conditions, so it is important to water your plant only when the soil is dry. First, make sure that you are watering your plant properly.
Anthracnose thrives in shady conditions, so providing your plant with plenty of light will help to control the disease. Second, make sure that you are providing your plant with enough light.
Third, make sure to remove any affected leaves from your plant. This will help to prevent the disease from spreading.
There are many different fungicides available, so be sure to choose one that is specifically designed for use on fiddle leaf figs. Fourth, treat your plant with a fungicide.
By following these tips, you can help to control anthracnose on your fiddle leaf fig.
Scalloped Edges
The leaves become sunburned and the edges turn brown and curl up. If you notice your fiddle leaf fig leaves getting scalloped edges, try moving the plant to a spot that gets less sun. Scalloped edges on leaves are often caused by too much sun exposure.
Other causes of scalloped edges on leaves include pests, disease, and lack of water. If you suspect any of these, be sure to check your plant carefully and treat accordingly.
How to Get Rid of Chewing Bugs
They can cause serious damage to a fiddle leaf fig, so it’s important to get rid of them as soon as possible. Chewing bugs are small, winged insects that feed on the sap of plants. If your fiddle leaf fig has holes in its leaves, it’s likely due to chewing bugs.
There are a few different ways to get rid of chewing bugs. If you have a serious infestation, you may need to call in a professional. You can also try a homemade solution, such as a mixture of dish soap and water. You can use an insecticide, such as neem oil or pyrethrin.
Inspect it regularly for signs of pests. And, if you live in an area where chewing bugs are common, consider using a preventative insecticide. Keep your fiddle leaf fig well-watered and fertilized. Once you’ve gotten rid of the chewing bugs, take steps to prevent them from coming back.
[2] Physical Damage
This can be caused by a number of things, including cats, dogs, and even humans. One of the most common problems that fiddle leaf fig owners face is physical damage to their leaves.
If you do have to move your plant, be sure to do so carefully and avoid bumping into any furniture or walls. One of the best ways to prevent physical damage to your fiddle leaf fig leaves is to keep them out of reach of any pets or small children.
These kits usually come with a special adhesive and some instructions on how to use it. If you notice any physical damage to your fiddle leaf fig leaves, you can try to repair it by using a leaf-repair kit.
Be sure to use a sharp knife or scissors and handle the leaves gently to avoid further damage. If the damage is too severe, you may need to replace the affected leaves. You can do this by carefully removing the damaged leaves and replacing them with new ones.
How to Fix
There are a few possible causes and solutions. If you notice holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves, don’t panic!
Common pests include aphids, mealybugs, and scale. One common cause of holes is pests. If you find pests, you can remove them by hand or with a pesticide. If you see small holes that look like they were made by insects, check for pests.
If your plant is getting too much water, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off. Another common cause of holes is too much or too little water. The best way to fix this is to adjust your watering schedule. If it’s not getting enough water, the leaves will turn brown and dry out.
If your plant is getting too much light, the leaves will scorch and turn brown. If it’s not getting enough light, the leaves will turn yellow and drop off. Finally, holes can also be caused by too much or too little light. The best way to fix this is to move your plant to a different location.
Another common cause of holes is too much or too little water. If your plant is getting too much water, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off. If your plant is getting too much light, the leaves will scorch and turn brown. One common cause of holes is pests. If you find pests, you can remove them by hand or with a pesticide. If you see small holes that look like they were made by insects, check for pests. The best way to fix this is to adjust your watering schedule. If you notice holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves, don’t panic! The best way to fix this is to move your plant to a different location. Common pests include aphids, mealybugs, and scale. If it’s not getting enough light, the leaves will turn yellow and drop off. Finally, holes can also be caused by too much or too little light. There are a few possible causes and solutions. If it’s not getting enough water, the leaves will turn brown and dry out.
[3] Boron Deficiency
Without enough boron, plants can’t properly grow and develop. Boron is an essential micronutrient for plants, and it helps with cell wall formation, cell division, and seed production. If you notice holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves, it could be a sign of boron deficiency.
There are a few ways to tell if your plant is deficient in boron. You should also make sure the soil is well-drained, as boron can be leached out of the soil if it’s too wet. In addition to holes in the leaves, you may also notice stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and dying flowers. If you think your plant is deficient, you can try adding a boron-containing fertilizer to the soil.
How to Fix Boron Deficiency
Boron is an essential micronutrient for plants, and it helps with cell wall formation, cell division, and seed production. If your fiddle leaf fig has holes in its leaves, it’s likely due to a boron deficiency.
You can do this by using a boron-containing fertilizer or by adding boron-rich compost to the soil. Be sure to follow the directions on the fertilizer package, as too much boron can be harmful to plants. To fix a boron deficiency, you’ll need to add boron to the soil.
If you suspect your plant has a boron deficiency, take a sample of the leaves to a local nursery or extension office for testing. This will help you determine how much boron to add to the soil.
[4] Insufficient Humidity Can Result in Holes in Fiddle Leaf Fig Leaves
If you notice holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves, it could be a sign that the humidity in your home is too low. Dry air can cause the leaves to become brittle and break.
You can also try running a humidifier near your plant. If the holes are severe, you may need to increase the humidity gradually to avoid shocking your plant. To increase the humidity around your plant, you can try misting it with water or placing it on a pebble tray.
If you see any other signs of pests or disease, you should consult a plant expert to get rid of the problem. Holes in fiddle leaf fig leaves can also be caused by pests or disease.
How to Fix
There are a few possible causes and solutions. If you notice holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves, don’t panic!
One common cause of holes is pests. The best way to get rid of pests is to use a natural pesticide like neem oil. If you see small holes in the leaves, it’s likely that pests are to blame.
Another common cause of holes is too much or too little water. Try increasing the frequency of your watering schedule. Try decreasing the frequency of your watering schedule. If you notice that the holes are located near the edges of the leaves, it’s likely that the plant is not getting enough water. If the holes are located in the center of the leaves, the plant is probably getting too much water.
Finally, holes can also be caused by damage from the sun. If you notice that the holes are located on the side of the leaves that faces the sun, try moving the plant to a location that gets less direct sunlight.
If you’re not sure what’s causing the holes in your fiddle leaf fig leaves, ask a professional at your local nursery or garden center for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do fiddle leaf fig leaves get holes?
A: There are a few reasons why holes might start appearing in your fiddle leaf fig leaves. One reason could be that the plant is not getting enough water and the leaves are drying out and starting to brown at the edges. Another reason could be that the plant is getting too much direct sunlight and the leaves are getting sunburned. If the holes are small and round, it could also be caused by a pest, like an aphid or whitefly, that is feeding on the plant.
Q: How can I water my fiddle leaf fig to avoid leaf holes?
A: The best way to water a fiddle leaf fig is to water it deeply, about once a week, until water starts to run out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Q: How can I protect my fiddle leaf fig from too much sunlight?
A: Fiddle leaf figs do best in bright, indirect sunlight. If you notice the leaves starting to turn brown or get sunburned, move the plant to a spot that gets less direct sunlight.
Q: I think my fiddle leaf fig has aphids. How can I get rid of them?
A: If you think your fiddle leaf fig has aphids, inspect the plant carefully for small, green insects. You can also look for sticky honeydew on the leaves or on the floor beneath the plant. To get rid of aphids, you can try hosing them off with water or spraying them with an insecticidal soap.
Q: What are some other pests that might cause holes in fiddle leaf fig leaves?
A: In addition to aphids, whiteflies can also cause holes in fiddle leaf fig leaves. Whiteflies are small, white insects that fly around when you disturb the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Final thoughts
If you have a fiddle leaf fig with holes in its leaves, there are a few possible causes. These include pests, diseases, and cultural problems. Luckily, there are solutions for each issue. By properly caring for your fiddle leaf fig, you can keep it healthy and free of holes.