As a gardening and landscaping expert, I understand the challenges that come with caring for fiddle leaf fig trees. These tropical plants thrive in warm temperatures and can be quite sensitive to cold weather. In general, fiddle leaf figs prefer temperatures no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night.
When it comes to cold tolerance, fiddle leaf fig trees are not very resilient. If exposed to prolonged periods of cold temperatures, they can suffer from leaf drop, stunted growth, and even die. Therefore, it is important to protect them from chilly conditions, especially during the fall and winter months.
If you have fiddle leaf figs outdoors, it becomes crucial to bring them inside at night once temperatures start to drop. Even if the days are still warm, the sudden temperature decrease during the night can be detrimental to their health. It is advisable to find a suitable indoor location for them, such as near a window where they can still receive adequate sunlight.
During my own experiences with fiddle leaf figs, I have encountered situations where the sudden onset of cold temperatures has caused damage to the plants. One particular autumn, I forgot to bring my outdoor fiddle leaf fig inside when the temperature dropped significantly overnight. The next morning, I noticed the leaves had turned brown and started to fall off. It was a heartbreaking sight, but it taught me a valuable lesson about the cold sensitivity of these plants.
To further protect your fiddle leaf figs from the cold, you can also consider using insulation techniques. Covering the plants with frost blankets or moving them to a protected area, such as a greenhouse or enclosed porch, can provide an extra layer of warmth during colder periods. Additionally, avoiding drafts and cold air pockets is important to prevent temperature fluctuations that can be harmful to the plants.
Fiddle leaf fig trees are not cold-tolerant and prefer temperatures no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night. It is crucial to bring them indoors once temperatures start to drop, especially during the fall and winter months. Taking precautions such as insulation and avoiding drafts can further protect these tropical plants from the detrimental effects of cold weather.
