Fiddle Leaf Fig branching
Quick answer
If your Fiddle Leaf Fig is branching, the most likely cause is: Ficus lyrata naturally exhibits strong apical dominance, growing a single tall trunk. Mechanical intervention is required to trigger lateral buds and create a branching, 'tree-like' shape.
Start here:
- 1. Notching: Make a 1/8-inch deep horizontal cut just above a dormant node using a sterile blade. This interrupts the flow of auxins from the top and encourages the node to activate.
- 2. Topping: Cut the top 6-12 inches of the main stem to remove the primary growth point, forcing multiple lower nodes to branch.
Why Fiddle Leaf Fig is branching
Ficus lyrata
Ficus lyrata naturally exhibits strong apical dominance, growing a single tall trunk. Mechanical intervention is required to trigger lateral buds and create a branching, 'tree-like' shape.
How to help Fiddle Leaf Fig that is branching
- 1
Notching: Make a 1/8-inch deep horizontal cut just above a dormant node using a sterile blade. This interrupts the flow of auxins from the top and encourages the node to activate.
- 2
Topping: Cut the top 6-12 inches of the main stem to remove the primary growth point, forcing multiple lower nodes to branch.
- 3
Ensure high light and fertilization after notching to provide the energy needed for new growth.
Keep this Fiddle Leaf Fig from ending up branching again
Pinch off the terminal bud (newest tiny leaf) every spring to encourage steady branching without heavy pruning.
Other Fiddle Leaf Fig problems
Go Deeper
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