Pruning guide
How to prune fiddle leaf fig
More fiddle leaf fig care
Pruning fiddle leaf fig — FAQ
When should I prune fiddle leaf fig?
Early spring before new growth emerges. Remove dead leaves at the stem. To encourage branching, cut the main stem just above a node with sharp, sterile shears. Notching — cutting a shallow groove just above a node without fully removing the stem — is a gentler alternative that stimulates side budding.
How often does fiddle leaf fig need pruning?
Annually for shaping; as needed for dead leaf removal. Fiddle leaf fig rarely needs heavy pruning. Remove dead or damaged leaves anytime. To encourage branching on a single trunk, notch or cut the growing tip just above a node in spring — this triggers lateral buds. Avoid cutting more than 20% of the canopy at once, as this plant is sensitive to sudden change.
How do you prune fiddle leaf fig?
Remove dead leaves at the stem. To encourage branching, cut the main stem just above a node with sharp, sterile shears. Notching — cutting a shallow groove just above a node without fully removing the stem — is a gentler alternative that stimulates side budding.