Fiddle Leaf Fig Brown Spots: Fixing Light and Water Issues

A fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) with large brown spots, fungus gnats, and soil that stays wet for weeks signals two critical problems: insufficient light and overwatering due to unnecessary repotting.

Immediate Actions

1. Light: Place directly in front of an uncovered south or west window. Closed blinds = no light. If heat is an issue, this plant isn't suitable for that spot.
2. Undo the repotting: Remove all added soil (likely source of fungus gnat larvae). Return to original or same-sized pot with drainage.
3. Water correctly: Allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings. No fertilizer until recovered.
4. Fungus gnats: Removing excess soil eliminates many larvae. Let soil dry properly to stop the cycle.

Brown spots won't reverse, but new growth will be healthy once light and moisture are corrected. Temperature swings (70–95°F) are less critical than light and water.