Holes in Fiddle-Leaf Fig Leaves: Insect Feeding or Disease? Diagnostic Steps Before Treatment

Reader Query

Fiddle-leaf fig has holes in leaves; no visible insects. Owner wants cause and treatment.

Expert Approach

Holes usually mean insect feeding (caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers) even if bugs hide. Check leaf undersides, stems, soil surface. Some diseases (e.g., shot hole) cause spots that drop out, leaving holes.

Critical Questions for Diagnosis

• Indoor or outdoor?
• Hole size, pattern, progression?
• Old vs. new leaves affected?
• Localized or whole plant?
• Any recent sprays?

Next Step

Send a sharp, close-up photo. Without visual ID, spraying blindly risks plant damage and wastes effort.