What causes rust spots on fiddle-leaf figs?

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 from its cello-shaped leaves. The leaves of the fiddle-leaf fig are dark green, glossy, growing densely and vigorously, and have high ornamental value. It is now usually cultivated as a foliage plant for 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, a few dotted rust spots will slowly merge into patches of rust spots, and eventually the leaves will fall off. What is going on with rust spots on fiddle-leaf fig leaves? Below, Qinnong Web explains the causes of rust spots on fiddle-leaf fig leaves and how to deal with them.

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

Rust spots on fiddle-leaf figs occur easily under conditions of higher temperature and higher humidity, especially in places such as Guangzhou, where March to June and October to November are the peak periods. At the same time, these diseases can also overwinter along with the plant, becoming active again the next year and continuing to harm its leaves.

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

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

2. If the entire plant is relatively infected by this disease, you can first remove the affected parts, then repot and replace the soil;

3. You can also use a specialized chemical for spraying treatment. If the condition is not serious, spraying with the chemical alone may be enough; if serious, repotting and changing the soil should also be considered;

4. After rust spots appear, never spray water on the leaves.

III. Prevention methods for rust spots on fiddle-leaf figs

1. In daily maintenance, keep the leaves clean, and wipe the leaves down at irregular intervals;

2. Choose soil with good drainage and aeration for planting;

3. Ventilation and light are very important; even after symptoms are found, the affected part should first be moved into the sun to be exposed to sunlight.

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, its ornamental value will be greatly affected, and if left unchecked, it will have an adverse effect on the growth of the whole plant, so it must be taken seriously.