If you have a fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) in your home, chances are you want the best planter to show off your beautiful plant.
It’s important to choose an appropriate planter for these striking plants, one that will draw attention to their unique shape and dramatic color while allowing them enough space to spread out their roots.
From creative terracotta pots to modern ceramic vessels — there are many great options available.
In this blog post, we’ll look at the various types of ideal planters and pots for fiddle leaf figs and highlight some of the factors you should consider before opting for any planter for your fiddle fig.
So lets get started!
Best Pots & Planters for Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees
Table of Contents
Terracotta Pots & Planters
Terracotta planters and pots are a popular choice for house plant enthusiasts, and for good reason. Not only do these decorative pots possess a timeless, rustic charm, but they also offer several benefits for the plants they hold.
The porous nature of the clay allows air and water to circulate easily, promoting healthy root growth and preventing moisture buildup that causes root rot.
This is beneficial for fiddle leaf figs, which prefer well-draining soil and require consistent, but not overly wet, watering.
Additionally, the weight and stability of terracotta pots prevent these tall and top-heavy plants from toppling over.
Terracotta pots can be a little heavy for large-sized fiddle leaf figs, and they can be a bit expensive too.
But if you are looking to keep your fiddle leaf fig happy and healthy, a terracotta pot might just be the perfect choice.
Ceramic Pots & Planters
If you’re looking for a new decorative pot for your fiddle leaf fig, ceramic pot might be the way to go.
Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but ceramic pots also have practical benefits for your plants.
One major advantage is that the soil in a ceramic pot is able to retain moisture better than in other materials, which is great for plants that need consistent watering.
Additionally, the glaze on ceramic pots helps to reduce their porousness and protect your plant from the elements.
This is especially important if you plan on keeping your pot outside.
And, if you’re prone to over-watering, a ceramic pot can be a better choice for you. The ceramic material allows for better drainage and helps prevent water from sitting in the soil.
Ceramic pots are also a great option for indoor plants but they can be a little costlier option.
Fiberglass Pots & Planters
Fiberglass pots are an excellent choice for every fiddle leaf fig lover because they are incredibly durable, easy to maintain, and offer excellent protection against damage.
Unlike terracotta or clay pots, fiberglass pots are incredibly long-lasting and do not crack or break easily.
They are also lightweight and easy to move around, making them a great option for a heavy fiddle leaf fig tree, as you can easily adjust your plant’s position if needed.
Moreover, these pots have a smooth surface resistant to water, making it more challenging for bacteria and fungi to develop.
All in all, fiberglass pots are the perfect solution for those looking to enhance the beauty of their fiddle leaf figs while providing them with a stable environment in which they can thrive.
Clay Pots & Planters
If you are looking for the best drainage pot, look no further than the clay pot. Clay pots are made from natural materials that allow for exceptional drainage, ensuring ample aeration and preventing the root diseases that can affect this finicky plant.
Clay pots also help to regulate soil moisture levels, which is important for the sensitive root system of a fiddle fig.
In addition to their practical benefits, clay pots can also serve as decorative pot to add an attractive aesthetic to any room or outdoor space.
Their natural color and texture complement the green foliage of a fiddle leaf fig, creating a stylish display. These planters are great for both indoor and outdoor use.
With their numerous advantages, clay pots should be on the radar of anyone looking to create a healthy and beautiful home for their fiddle figs.
Self-Watering Pots & Planters
A self-watering pot is a container designed to automatically provide water to the plant growing inside it.
These pots are becoming increasingly popular among indoor gardeners because they make caring for plants more convenient and efficient.
Fig plant, in particular, is notorious for being finicky when it comes to watering. These plants require a consistent level of moisture, but over-watering or too much moisture can easily lead to root rot.
Self-watering pots help to regulate water intake, delivering just the right amount of moisture to the plant without risking water-logging it. This feature also makes self-watering pots ideal for those who travel or have busy schedules, as they can reduce the frequency of watering needed.
Self-watering pots are a great investment for plant enthusiasts looking to simplify the care process and keep their fiddle leaf plant thriving.
Paper Bag Planters
Paper bag planters are a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional pots, and they offer numerous benefits for your fiddle leaf fig.
A paper bag planter is made from recycled materials; these planters provide excellent drainage and aeration, preventing soil from becoming waterlogged and reducing the risk of root rot.
This feature is particularly crucial for fiddle leaf figs, as they prefer well-draining soil to thrive.
Moreover, paper bag planters are adjustable, allowing you to adjust the size and shape to fit your fiddle leaf fig’s needs.
Because they are somewhat similar to the paper material, you will have to water your plant outside the planter, or you can keep a plastic pot inside the planter.
These planters are lightweight and portable and are perfect for apartment dwellers, as they take up minimal space and can be moved easily.
Plastic Pots & Planters
Plastic planters are another option if you want to keep your beautiful fiddle leaf fig happy. These lightweight and durable containers offer several benefits, such as easy movability and affordability, unlike traditional ceramic or terracotta pots.
Plastic planters come in various sizes and colors, allowing you to select the perfect fit for your fiddle leaf fig. They also retain moisture better than other materials, keeping the soil evenly moist.
However, it’s important to ensure that the plastic planter has proper drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom of the pot and causing root rot.
Tall Tapered Planters
Tall tapered planters are another option if you want a sleek and modern planter for your fiddle leaf fig.
Tall tapered planters offer ample space for your plant’s roots to grow downwards, providing stability and supporting healthy root development.
This ensures that your fiddle leaf fig has easy access to nutrients and water stored in the soil, leading to lush foliage and stronger growth.
Another great advantage of tall tapered planters is that they usually have plenty of drainage holes which are important to prevent your plant from becoming waterlogged.
These planters are usually made of durable materials such as ceramic or fiberglass, which means they can withstand harsh weather conditions and won’t crack easily.
They’re also available in a variety of colors and finishes, so you can choose one that complements your decor.
Sea Grass Baskets
Sea grass baskets are an excellent choice for fiddle leaf figs. These baskets are made from natural materials such as seagrass which is handwoven into beautiful designs.
The baskets come with plastic liners that make them ideal for indoor plant potting.
To water your fiddle leaf fig in a seagrass basket, simply remove the plastic liner and place it in your sink. Water thoroughly, allow the excess water to drain, and then put the liner back into the basket.
Keeping your fiddle leaf fig in a seagrass basket looks not only aesthetically pleasing but also promotes healthy plant growth.
What To Look For When Shopping for a Fiddle Leaf Fig Planter
When shopping for a fiddle leaf fig planter, here are a few things you should look out for;
Size
When shopping for a fiddle leaf fig planter, it is important to consider the size of your plant. The size of your planter will depend on the size of your plant.
You should choose a planter that is 2-4 inches wider in diameter than the current size of your plant’s root ball. For example, if your plant’s root ball is 8 inches in diameter, you should choose a planter that is between 10-12 inches in diameter.
The depth matters, too, so your planter should be deep enough to allow the roots to spread out and grow but not so deep that it makes it difficult for water to reach the entire root system. A depth of around 12-16 inches would suffice for a fiddle leaf fig tree.
You can opt for fiberglass pots as they are considerably lighter than ceramic pots, which can be advantageous when moving and handling a large plant.
Drainage
It is one of the most important considerations when selecting a planter for your fiddle leaf fig.
You must ensure that it has an adequate drainage system to prevent water logging, which can lead to root rot and can deteriorate the plant’s health.
To ensure proper drainage, look for a planter with one large drainage hole at the bottom or multiple drainage holes.
Terracotta pots are an excellent option as they allow for air circulation and prevent soil from becoming waterlogged. You can also use a pot with a plastic liner that has several drainage holes.
Also, your soil matters too when considering the drainage; a well-draining soil mix that’s high in organic matter works great for fiddle leaf figs.
Peat-based soil mixed with perlite is an excellent choice. Avoid using heavy soils like clay, as they can retain too much moisture, leading to root rot.
Weight
Choosing the right planter is crucial to ensure the health and longevity of your ficus lyrata.
One key consideration is the weight of the planter, as a too-heavy pot can put unnecessary stress on the plant’s roots and hinder growth.
When shopping for a planter, options like ceramic, concrete, and plastic all have different weight capacities.
Ceramic planters, while stylish and durable, can be on the heavier side. In contrast, lightweight plastic pots and fiberglass pots offer convenience and easy mobility.
If you want to avoid heavy pots but still want to ensure stability, consider planters with sturdy bases and broad bottoms, like cylindrical or rounded shapes.
Durability
Choosing a durable planter is essential when potting your fiddle leaf figs. While aesthetics play a big role in choosing a decorative container and plant stand, it’s easy to overlook the importance of strength and stability.
A weak or inadequate planter can suffocate the fiddle leaf fig’s roots, causing the plant to wither and die.
When choosing a planter, it’s important to ensure that it’s substantial enough for the added weight of the fiddle leaf fig. An unstable planter can lead to toppling, which can damage the plant and potentially cause harm to those around it.
When it comes to durability, materials like ceramic, stone, and concrete, are sturdy and long-lasting.
On the other hand, lightweight materials like plastic and thin metal are not recommended for larger plants like a fiddle leaf tree.
Maintenance
Whether you are planning to keep your fiddle leaf fig indoors or outdoors, look for a planter that comes with easy maintenance. A lightweight plastic planter is a good option for easy maintenance.
Plastic planters are affordable, easy to clean, and won’t break if accidentally bumped or knocked over. Alternatively, a ceramic pot can also work well – just be sure to choose one with proper drainage and a size that allows for some growth of your tree.
Price
Last but not least, consider the price. Prices for planters can range from inexpensive plastic options to pricier ceramic and terracotta pots.
On average, plastic planters can cost as low as $5, while ceramic and terracotta planters can range from $20 to $50.
Remember, the right planter can not only elevate the aesthetics of your fiddle leaf fig but also provide the necessary drainage and environment for healthy growth.
Wrapping Up!
When it comes to the best planters for a fiddle leaf fig there are many options. From ceramic planters to woven baskets, terracotta pots, and even plastic planters, you can find something that best fits your stylish aesthetic while helping keep your fiddle leaf fig healthy and happy.
Not only do these planters come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, but they also have many different finishes, making it easy to find one that will match the style and feel of your home decor. And if you don’t want to risk a lack of proper aeration or saturation with the wrong potting mix or soil – don’t forget about self-watering containers.
With proper soil selection, correct pot size, ideal lighting conditions, and enough room for growth – having the right planter matters more than ever before. So make sure you pick a container that fits all those criteria in order to set yourself up for success and enjoy beautiful fiddle leaf fig success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Fiddle Leaf Figs Need Drainage Holes?
Yes, fiddle figs need drainage holes in their pots to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root growth. Without proper drainage, the soil can become waterlogged and lead to root rot, which can harm or kill the plant.
Is One Drainage Hole Enough for Fiddle Leaf Fig?
Although one drainage hole may be sufficient for a small fiddle leaf fig, it’s generally recommended to have multiple drainage holes in the pot to ensure adequate drainage.
Do Fiddle Leaf Figs Prefer Big Pots?
Fiddle leaf figs prefer to be planted in pots that are only slightly larger than their root ball. A pot that is too big can lead to waterlogging and soil that stays too wet, which can harm the plant. It’s generally recommended to only increase the pot size by 1-2 inches at a time, as the plant grows.