New Fiddle-Leaf Fig Losing New Growth: Light, Water, and Return Policy

A week-old Ficus lyrata lost its new top leaves. Owner moves it daily: to a window at 1 PM for a few hours of light, then near a lamp in evening. Bottom leaves are dropping. Questions on moving, watering, fertilizing, and whether it's dying.

Key Advice

• Stop moving it daily. Artificial light doesn't help. Keep it on the sunny windowsill permanently.
• New leaf loss in the first week indicates pre-existing root damage/rot—return for a refund if new growth continues to die.
• Water when top inch of soil feels dry (may be more frequent in dry winter air).
• No fertilizer until healthy vigorous growth resumes (spring earliest, half-strength).

If healthy new growth appears, the plant will recover. Free Ficus lyrata care article offered via email.