If you’ve ever owned a fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata), you know how beautiful—and sometimes temperamental—they can be. These tall, glossy-leaved beauties instantly elevate a room, but keeping them happy requires attention to soil, pot size, and overall care. One of the most important parts of fiddle leaf fig care is repotting.

Repotting a fiddle leaf fig doesn’t have to be intimidating or complicated. In fact, with the right tools, timing, and a few simple steps, you can revitalize your plant, encourage growth, and prevent root problems in under 10 easy steps. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting your indoor jungle journey, this guide is for you.

Why Repotting Matters

Before we jump into the steps, let’s talk about why repotting your fiddle leaf fig is important:

Encourages Root Growth – Over time, roots can become “pot-bound,” circling the inside of the pot and limiting growth. Repotting gives them space to expand.
Refreshes Soil – Old soil can lose nutrients and compact over time. New soil helps your plant absorb water and nutrients more effectively.
Prevents Disease – Compacted or soggy soil can lead to root rot. Repotting reduces this risk.
Supports Plant Size – As fiddle leaf figs grow taller and heavier, a bigger pot ensures stability and reduces tipping risk.

Signs your fiddle leaf fig needs repotting include:

Roots growing out of drainage holes
Soil dries too quickly after watering
Leaves yellowing or dropping unexpectedly
Growth has slowed dramatically

If your plant shows any of these signs, it’s time to repot.

When to Repot Your Fiddle Leaf Fig

Timing is crucial for a successful repot. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Avoid repotting in winter, as the plant is more dormant and less able to recover from stress.

Spring/Summer: Active growth, faster recovery
Fall/Winter: Dormant phase, slower adaptation

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before starting, gather everything you need:

A pot 2–4 inches larger in diameter than the current one (with drainage holes)
High-quality potting mix, ideally for indoor tropical plants
Gardening gloves (optional but recommended)
Trowel or small shovel
Pruning shears (for trimming dead or damaged roots)
A watering can
Newspaper or a tarp to catch soil

Having everything ready before you start ensures a smooth process without frantic scrambling halfway through.

Step 1: Prepare Your New Pot

Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one. Fiddle leaf figs prefer slightly snug spaces, so don’t go too big—the soil will retain too much water and may cause root rot.

Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Add a layer of fresh potting mix at the bottom. This gives roots a healthy base.

Pro Tip: You can also add a thin layer of small rocks or clay pellets at the bottom for extra drainage, but it’s optional if your soil is well-draining.

Step 2: Water Your Fiddle Leaf Fig

Watering your plant a day before repotting makes removing it from the pot much easier. Moist soil holds together, so roots are less likely to break during transfer.

Avoid soaking the soil completely; slightly damp is perfect.

Step 3: Remove the Plant From Its Pot

Gently tilt the plant sideways and tap the sides of the pot to loosen the soil. If your fiddle leaf fig is stubborn:

Use a knife or trowel along the edges to release roots stuck to the pot.
Support the base of the trunk with one hand while you ease it out with the other.

Tip: Be gentle! Fiddle leaf fig roots are sensitive and can bruise easily.

Step 4: Loosen the Roots

Once your plant is out of the pot:

Gently loosen circling or tangled roots with your fingers.
Trim any dead, mushy, or black roots using sterilized pruning shears. Healthy roots are firm and white.

Why: This encourages healthy root growth and prevents root rot.

Tip: Don’t remove more than 10–15% of the root mass—too much pruning can stress the plant.

Step 5: Add Fresh Soil to the New Pot

Add a layer of fresh potting mix to the bottom of your new pot.

Create a small mound in the center for the root ball to sit on.
This ensures the plant sits at the same soil level as it did previously.

Tip: Fiddle leaf figs like soil that’s well-draining and rich in organic matter, so look for indoor tropical mixes or make your own blend with peat, perlite, and compost.

Step 6: Position the Plant

Place the fiddle leaf fig in the center of the new pot.

Check the soil level—the top of the root ball should be slightly below the pot rim.
Make sure the plant is upright and straight.

Tip: Step back and look from different angles to ensure the plant is balanced and aesthetically pleasing.

Step 7: Fill in the Soil

Gently add soil around the root ball, pressing lightly to remove air pockets.

Don’t pack the soil too tightly—roots need some space to breathe.
Leave about an inch of space from the rim for watering.

Tip: Watering immediately after repotting helps the soil settle and encourages roots to make contact with new soil.

Step 8: Water Thoroughly

Water your fiddle leaf fig generously, ensuring water flows through the drainage holes.

This helps the soil settle around the roots.
Avoid overwatering afterward; let the top inch of soil dry before watering again.

Tip: After repotting, it’s normal for the plant to experience minor stress, like slight leaf droop. This is temporary.

Step 9: Adjust Light and Placement

After repotting, your plant may be more sensitive:

Keep it in bright, indirect light for the first few weeks.
Avoid direct sun, which can stress the leaves.

Tip: If you must move it outdoors, acclimate it gradually over a week to prevent sunburn.

Step 10: Care and Maintenance After Repotting

Avoid fertilizing for 4–6 weeks—roots need time to adjust.
Monitor for yellowing leaves or drooping, which can indicate stress.
Dust leaves gently to encourage photosynthesis.
Rotate the plant periodically to ensure even growth.

Extra Tips for a Healthy Fiddle Leaf Fig

1. Choose the Right Size Pot

Too large a pot retains water, leading to root rot. One or two inches larger than the current pot is ideal.

2. Use a Well-Draining Soil Mix

A blend of peat, perlite, and compost keeps the soil airy and nutritious.

3. Avoid Overwatering

Fiddle leaf figs prefer to dry slightly between watering. Overwatering is the leading cause of stress post-repotting.

4. Handle With Care

Fiddle leaf fig leaves bruise easily, which can lead to brown spots. Avoid dragging the plant; always lift by the base of the trunk.

5. Monitor for Pests

Repotting can expose hidden pests. Inspect roots and leaves for scale, spider mites, or aphids.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Repotting too often: Fiddle leaf figs don’t need frequent repotting—once every 1–2 years is enough.
Going too big on pot size: A huge pot can cause water retention and root rot.
Neglecting drainage: Always ensure the new pot has holes to avoid soggy roots.
Pruning too much: Removing too many roots or leaves can shock the plant.
Wrong soil type: Avoid dense, clay-heavy soils.

Signs Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Is Thriving After Repotting

After a few weeks, look for these indicators:

New leaves or shoots emerging
Leaves standing upright and glossy
Roots gently pressing against the soil without circling the pot
Plant stability—standing upright without tipping

My Personal Repotting Experience

I remember repotting my first fiddle leaf fig—it was over six feet tall, and I was nervous! I followed the steps carefully: choosing a slightly larger pot, using a high-quality tropical mix, and gently teasing out the root ball.

Within a few weeks, I noticed new leaves sprouting, and the plant seemed more vibrant. The biggest lesson? Patience and gentle care go a long way. Fiddle leaf figs respond beautifully to mindful attention, and repotting is one of the best ways to show love to your plant.

Repotting a fiddle leaf fig doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these 10 easy steps, you can:

Encourage healthy root growth
Refresh soil and nutrients
Prevent root rot and disease
Support overall plant growth and stability

Remember: gentleness, proper soil, and the right pot size are key. After repotting, give your plant a few weeks to adjust, and soon it will reward you with vibrant, glossy leaves and continued growth.

Repotting is more than just a chore—it’s an opportunity to connect with your plant, observe its roots and health, and set it up for a thriving season ahead. With practice, patience, and these simple steps, even a novice plant parent can successfully repot a fiddle leaf fig like a pro.

Repotting a Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree in Less Than 10 Easy Steps

Repotting a fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) can seem intimidating, especially if you’re a plant parent who’s careful—or nervous—about stressing your leafy friend. But with a little preparation, patience, and know-how, it can be a rewarding experience that revitalizes your plant and keeps it thriving for years.

We’ve already covered the 10 easy steps for repotting a fiddle leaf fig. Now, let’s dive deeper into the tricks, tips, and extras that make repotting smoother and more successful.

Understanding Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Before Repotting

Before repotting, it’s helpful to observe your plant’s overall health. Your fiddle leaf fig is like a living companion—it communicates through leaves, roots, and growth patterns.

Signs your fiddle leaf fig needs repotting:

Roots growing out of drainage holes
Soil drying out unusually fast
Stunted growth or drooping leaves
Leaf yellowing despite proper care

If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s a good indication your plant needs more space or fresh soil.

Seasonal Considerations

Timing your repotting matters:

Spring & Early Summer: Best time—plant is actively growing and can recover quickly.
Fall: Avoid repotting if possible—growth slows down, and plant stress can be prolonged.
Winter: Dormant period; roots recover slowly. Only repot if absolutely necessary.

Pro Tip: Repotting in the right season reduces shock and ensures faster acclimation to the new pot.

Step-by-Step Expanded Guide

Here’s a more detailed look at the 10 steps we covered, with extra tips for success.

Step 1: Choose the Right Pot

Pick a pot 2–4 inches larger in diameter than your current pot. Too large a pot can retain excess moisture, which leads to root rot.
Ensure drainage holes are present; if your pot doesn’t have them, consider drilling or using a plastic liner with holes.
Materials: Terracotta pots are great because they’re porous, letting soil breathe. Plastic pots retain more moisture and are lighter for moving heavy plants.

Extra Tip: If your fiddle leaf fig is tall or top-heavy, use a pot that’s wide and stable to prevent tipping.

Step 2: Gather Materials and Prep Your Workspace

Before starting, gather:

Fresh potting soil (indoor tropical plant mix)
Gardening gloves and trowel
Pruning shears
A tarp or newspaper to catch soil
Watering can

Extra Tip: Have a friend help for taller or heavier plants—it makes lifting and repotting much safer.

Step 3: Water the Plant

Watering your plant a day before repotting makes it easier to remove from its current pot. Moist soil holds together, protecting roots during transfer. Avoid overwatering, though; soggy soil makes handling messy and increases risk of root damage.

Step 4: Remove Your Fiddle Leaf Fig From Its Pot

Gently tip the plant sideways, holding the trunk near the base.
Tap or squeeze the sides of the pot to loosen soil.
If the plant is stuck, use a knife or trowel along the edges.

Pro Tip: Avoid pulling by the leaves—they tear easily. Always support the trunk.

Step 5: Inspect and Loosen Roots

Now that your plant is out:

Gently untangle circling roots.
Trim dead or mushy roots—they’re typically brown or black and soft.
Healthy roots should be white or light tan and firm.

Extra Tip: Fiddle leaf figs can handle a small root trim (10–15%)—just enough to encourage new growth.

Step 6: Add Fresh Soil to the New Pot

Add a base layer of soil to the new pot.
Create a small mound to center the root ball.
Use a well-draining mix, ideally peat, perlite, and compost.

Pro Tip: You can mix in charcoal or orchid bark for extra drainage, especially in heavy clay soils.

Step 7: Position the Plant

Place the fiddle leaf fig in the center, maintaining the same soil level as before.
Ensure it stands upright—step back to check from multiple angles.

Pro Tip: For tall plants, consider staking during the first few weeks after repotting to prevent leaning.

Step 8: Fill Soil Around the Roots

Fill in gently, pressing lightly to remove air pockets.
Leave about an inch from the rim for watering.

Extra Tip: Avoid compacting the soil too much—fiddle leaf fig roots need air as well as moisture.

Step 9: Water Thoroughly

Water generously so soil settles.
Let excess water drain completely.
After initial watering, allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again.

Pro Tip: Repotting stress can cause leaf droop—this is normal. Avoid fertilizing for 4–6 weeks to reduce stress.

Step 10: Adjust Light and Placement

Place your fiddle leaf fig in bright, indirect light.
Avoid direct sunlight for a few weeks to prevent leaf burn.
Rotate periodically for even growth.

Extra Tip: If moving your plant outdoors temporarily, acclimate slowly to avoid sun shock.

Advanced Tips for Successful Repotting

Choose a Slightly Snug Pot: Fiddle leaf figs prefer slightly tight roots—too much space can hold water and stress the plant.
Use High-Quality Soil: Nutrient-rich, well-draining soil is key to avoiding root rot.
Monitor Humidity: Indoor fiddle leaf figs thrive at 40–60% humidity. Consider a humidifier or pebble tray after repotting.
Support Tall Plants: Tall figs may need a stake during initial weeks post-repotting.
Be Gentle With Leaves: Leaf edges bruise easily. Move your plant slowly, and protect large leaves during transfer.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake	Why It Happens	How to Avoid
Repotting too often	Some people do it yearly unnecessarily	Figs usually only need repotting every 1–2 years
Going too big on pot	Soil retains water, root rot occurs	Increase pot size 2–4 inches only
Poor drainage	Water accumulates, causing rot	Always use pots with drainage holes
Over-pruning roots	Plant becomes stressed	Trim max 10–15% of roots
Using dense soil	Soil compacts and suffocates roots	Use well-draining tropical indoor soil mix

Seasonal Care Post-Repotting

Spring/Summer: Fiddle leaf fig grows actively; new leaves may appear within weeks.
Fall/Winter: Growth slows; avoid fertilizing. Focus on light and humidity instead.

Propagation Opportunities

Repotting is a perfect time to propagate fiddle leaf fig cuttings:

Choose a healthy branch with 1–2 leaves.
Cut with sterilized shears at a 45-degree angle.
Place in water or soil to root.
Label and monitor carefully until new growth appears.

Tip: Propagating while repotting lets you grow a new plant from the parent fig!

Troubleshooting After Repotting

Leaf Droop: Normal for 1–2 weeks; ensure proper watering and light.
Yellowing Leaves: Could indicate overwatering—check soil moisture.
Leaf Drop: May happen due to stress; avoid moving or fertilizing too soon.
Slow Growth: Be patient; figs take time to adjust to new soil and space.

My Personal Repotting Story

I once repotted my fiddle leaf fig after two years in a small pot. It was over six feet tall and a little top-heavy. I worried about damaging roots or breaking leaves. I carefully followed these steps:

Chose a pot just 3 inches larger than the old one
Loosened tangled roots gently
Trimmed only a few dead roots
Watered and placed in bright, indirect light

Within a month, I noticed new growth at the top and leaves standing upright. It reminded me: repotting isn’t scary—it’s an act of care that encourages life and growth.

Extra Tips for Keeping Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Happy

Rotate your plant weekly for even light exposure.
Dust leaves regularly to improve photosynthesis.
Fertilize sparingly after 4–6 weeks of repotting.
Monitor humidity, especially in dry indoor environments.
Check for pests—spider mites, scale, and aphids can hide on leaves and roots.

Final Thoughts

Repotting a fiddle leaf fig may seem intimidating at first, but with preparation, the right tools, and gentle care, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Following these steps ensures your plant:

Thrives in fresh soil
Has healthy roots
Grows taller, stronger, and more stable
Continues to bring beauty to your home

Remember: patience is key. Fiddle leaf figs take a little time to adjust, but once they settle in, they reward you with vibrant leaves, steady growth, and endless elegance.

Repotting is more than just a chore—it’s a way to connect with your plant, nurture it, and watch it flourish for years to come. With these steps and tips, even novice plant parents can confidently repot a fiddle leaf fig and see amazing results.