What causes rust spots on fiddle-leaf fig leaves?

The fiddle-leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is a small shrub, often found in mountain areas, open fields or scrub forests in southeastern and south-central China. Its leaves are papery and it gets its name because the leaves are shaped like a cello. The leaves of the fiddle-leaf fig are dark green, glossy, and grow vigorously and densely, with very high ornamental value, and it is now usually cultivated as a foliage plant in halls.

However, if the fiddle-leaf fig is not properly cared for in daily maintenance, rust spots are very likely to appear on the leaves. At this point, if left untreated, several dot-like rust spots will slowly merge into patches of rust spots, and eventually the leaves will fall off. What is the reason for rust spots on fiddle-leaf fig leaves? Below, Qinnong Web introduces for everyone: the causes of rust spots on fiddle-leaf fig leaves and the methods to deal with them.

1. Causes of rust spots on fiddle-leaf fig leaves

Rust spots on the fiddle-leaf fig are likely to occur under conditions of higher temperature and greater humidity, especially in places such as Guangzhou, where March to June and October to November are the peak periods for occurrence. At the same time, these diseases can also overwinter along with the plant, and the following year they will become active again and continue to harm its leaves.

2. Solutions for rust spots on fiddle-leaf fig leaves

1. If the leaves are rather severely affected, it is recommended to cut the leaves off directly;

2. If the whole plant is fairly infected by this disease, you can first remove the affected parts, and then carry out repotting and soil replacement;

3. You can also use a specialized chemical for spray treatment. If the condition is not serious, you can use only the chemical for spray treatment; if it is serious, you should also consider repotting and replacing the soil;

4. After rust spots appear, be sure not to spray water on the leaves.

3. Prevention methods for rust spots on the fiddle-leaf fig

1. In daily maintenance, keep the leaves clean, and you can wipe the leaves from time to time;

2. The soil used for planting should be soil with good drainage and air permeability;

3. Ventilation and light are very important; even after symptoms are discovered, the first thing to do is move the diseased part into the sunlight to be exposed.

The above are the causes of rust spots appearing on fiddle-leaf fig leaves and the related prevention and control measures. As an excellent foliage plant, if rust spots appear on the leaves of the fiddle-leaf fig, it will greatly affect its ornamental value. If left unchecked, it will also have a negative impact on the growth of the whole plant, so it must be taken seriously.