A fiddle Leaf Fig, scientifically known as a Ficus tree, is a popular houseplant that is native to the tropical regions of Africa. The Ficus tree is an attractive plant with large, glossy, violin-shaped leaves, and it has become a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts.
However, this plant requires a lot of light to thrive, and not all homes provide enough natural light. In such cases, grow lights can be used to supplement the light requirements of the plant. In this article, we will discuss the best grow light for fiddle leaf fig.
Sunlight Requirements of Fiddle Leaf Fig
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Before we discuss the best grow light for these plants, it is essential to understand how much light the fiddle leaf fig tree needs. When it comes to light exposure, remember that the Fiddle Leaf Fig needs bright, indirect light to thrive. It is important to keep the plant away from direct light as it can scorch the leaves and damage the plant.
The ideal location for these indoor plants is near a north-facing window or an east-facing window that receives bright, indirect light for up to eight hours. However, not all homes receive direct light, and this is where grow bulbs (artificial lights) come in.
Can Fiddle Leaf Fig Grow in Direct Sunlight?
While fiddle leaf figs do require bright, indirect sunlight, these indoor plants are generally not able to tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Direct sunlight can cause damage to the plant’s leaves and stem, and can even kill the plant if left exposed for too long.
Here are some potential effects of direct sunlight on fiddle leaf figs:
Sunburn
Just like human skin, the leaves of a fiddle leaf fig plant can get sunburned if exposed to too much direct sunlight.
Sunburned leaves may turn brown or black, and the damage can be irreversible. In severe cases, sunburn can cause the leaves to fall off completely.
Leaf Curl
Direct sunlight can cause the leaves of these indoor plants to curl or fold in on themselves. This is a natural response to protect the leaves from the sun’s intense rays.
While some degree of leaf curl is normal, excessive curling can indicate that the plant is receiving too much direct sunlight.
Stunted Growth
Fiddle leaf figs that are exposed to too much bright light may experience stunted growth.
The intense heat and light can damage the plant’s stem and roots, inhibiting its ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.
Reduced Vibrancy
Direct sunlight or bright light can also cause the vibrant green color of a fiddle leaf fig plant’s leaves to fade or turn yellow.
This can make the plant appear less healthy and less attractive.
What are Grow Light Bulbs?
A grow light is an artificial light source that provides the necessary light spectrum and intensity of light to promote plant growth and development. This light source is commonly used by indoor gardeners, commercial growers, and hobbyists to supplement natural sunlight or to provide light to large plants in locations where natural light is limited or unavailable.
Grow lights for plants, also referred to as artificial lights, come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including fluorescent, HID (high-intensity discharge), and LED (light-emitting diode) lights. They are typically designed to mimic the natural light spectrum, providing plants with the wavelengths of light they need to carry out photosynthesis and grow. Different types of grow lights emit different wavelengths of light, which can affect plant growth and development in different ways.
Using grow lights can be especially beneficial for plants that require high levels of light, such as tropical plants or those that require long periods of daylight. They can also be useful for extending the growing season and allowing gardeners to grow plants year-round, regardless of the weather outside.
When selecting a grow light for your plants, it’s important to consider factors such as the type of plant you’re growing, the size of your growing area, and the intensity and full spectrum of light required. By selecting the right grow light and using it appropriately, you can help ensure that your plants receive the necessary light they need to thrive and grow.
Types of Grow Lights
There are several types of grow lights available in the market, and each one has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The most common types of grow lights are:
Fluorescent Lights
Fluorescent lights are the most affordable grow lights available in the market. They emit a cool spectrum of light that is ideal for vegetative growth, and they are available in different sizes and shapes.
High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Grow Lights
HID grow lights are the most efficient grow lights available in the market. They emit a full spectrum of light that is similar to natural sunlight, making them ideal for plants that require a lot of light.
Light Emitting Diode (LED) Grow Lights
A LED light is one of the most expensive grow lights available in the market. However, they are also the most efficient grow lights available.
They emit full spectrum light that is similar to HID grow lights, making them ideal for plants that require a lot of light.
Best Grow Light for Fiddle Leaf Fig
After considering the sunlight requirements of fiddle leaf fig and the different types of grow lights available, we can now discuss the best grow light for these indoor plants.
Based on our research, the best grow light for these plants is the LED grow light. A LED light emits full spectrum light that is similar to HID grow lights, making them ideal for plants that require a lot of light.
In addition, a LED light is one of the most energy-efficient lights and has a long lifespan, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.
Here are some factors to consider when finding the best grow light for fiddle leaf figs:
Spectrum
A good grow light should provide full spectrum lighting, including white, red, and blue light. This is important because different wavelengths of light are required for different stages of plant growth.
Red light helps promote flowering and fruiting, while blue light promotes leaf growth and development. White light provides a balanced full spectrum of light that is suitable for all stages of plant growth.
Wattage
The wattage power of a grow light refers to the amount of power it consumes, and is an important factor to consider when selecting a grow light. The wattage of the grow light should be appropriate for the size of your plant and the size of the area you want to cover.
As a general rule, a wattage of 200-300 watts is suitable for covering an area of 2-5 square feet.
Coverage Area
The coverage area of the grow light is also an important factor to consider. You want to make sure that the grow light is powerful enough to cover the entire area where your indoor plants are located.
If the grow light is too weak or has a small coverage area, your plant may not receive enough light to thrive.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is another important factor to consider when selecting a grow light. Energy-efficient grow lights consume less power and produce less heat, which can save you money on your electricity bill and prevent damage to your plants.
LED grow lights are generally the most energy-efficient option, and can last up to 50,000 hours.
Heat Output
The heat output of a grow light is also an important factor to consider. Grow lights that produce too much heat can damage your plants or cause them to dry out.
Look for a grow light with a low heat output, or one that comes with a built-in cooling system or fan.
Durability
You want to select a grow light that is durable and built to last. Look for a grow light with sturdy construction, high-quality materials, and a long lifespan.
Some grow lights come with warranties, which can give you peace of mind and protect your investment.
Ease of Use
Finally, you want to select a grow light that is easy to use and maintain. Look for a grow light that comes with a timer or other control features, so you can easily set the light cycle for your plant.
Moreover, look for a grow light that is easy to install and adjust as your plant grows.
Most Popular Indoor Lights for Fiddle Leaf Fig
Spider Farmer SF-2000 LED Grow Light
This indoor light emits full spectrum lighting that is suitable for fiddle leaf figs. It has a wattage of 200 watts, which is suitable for a coverage area of up to 3 square feet.
It also has a built-in timer and produces minimal heat.
Advantages
Full spectrum of light suitable for this indoor plant
High wattage of 200 watts suitable for a coverage area of up to 3 square feet
Built-in timer for easy control of the light cycle
Minimal heat output to prevent damage to leaves
Energy-efficient, long lifespan
Disadvantages
Higher initial cost compared to other options
Some users have reported noise from the fans
VIPARSPECTRA XS1500 LED Grow Light
This grow light emits a full spectrum of light that is suitable for fiddle leaf fig plants. It has a wattage of 150 watts, which is suitable for a coverage area of up to 3 square feet.
It comes with a built-in timer and produces minimal heat.
Advantages
Providing full spectrum lighting for these foliage plants has never been so easy
Wattage of 150 watts suitable for a coverage area of up to 3 square feet
Built-in timer for easy control of the light cycle
Minimal heat output to prevent damage to leaves
Energy-efficient, long lifespan
Lower cost compared to other options
Disadvantages
Some users have reported a shorter lifespan compared to other options
Coverage area may not be sufficient for larger plants
Phlizon CREE COB 3000W LED Grow Light
This grow light emits a full spectrum of light that is suitable for fiddle leaf fig plants. It has a wattage of 300 watts, which is suitable for a coverage area of up to 5 square feet.
Like the other two, this also has a built-in timer and produces minimal heat.
Advantages
Full spectrum of light suitable for fiddle leaf figs
High wattage of 300 watts suitable for a coverage area of up to 5 square feet
Built-in timer for easy control of the light cycle
Minimal heat output to prevent damage to leaves
Energy-efficient, long lifespan
Disadvantages
Highest initial cost compared to other options
Some users have reported a shorter lifespan compared to other options
Larger sizes may be less convenient for smaller growing spaces
How Much Light Do Fiddle Leaf Figs Need from Grow Lights?
The amount of time a grow light should be kept on for these indoor plants depends on a few factors, including the type and strength of the grow light, the age and size of the plant, and the amount of natural light the plant receives.
In general, most fiddle leaf figs require around 12-16 hours of light per day to thrive. This can be achieved by keeping the grow light on for 12-16 hours each day, while allowing the plant to rest in darkness for the remaining 8-12 hours.
However, it is important to note that too much light can be harmful to a fiddle leaf fig plant, just as too little light can be. If you notice that your plant’s leaves are starting to turn brown or yellow, this may be a sign that it is receiving too much light. In this case, you may need to reduce the amount of time the grow light is kept on each day, or move the plant to a location where it receives less natural light.
On the other hand, if your fiddle leaf fig plant is not getting enough light, you may need to increase the amount of time the grow light is kept on each day or move the plant to a location with more natural light.
It is important to monitor your fiddle leaf fig plant closely to ensure it is receiving the appropriate amount of light and adjust the timing and strength of the grow light as necessary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, providing adequate lighting is crucial for the growth and health of fiddle leaf figs. While these plants can tolerate low light conditions, they require bright, indirect light to thrive. A grow light can be an excellent solution for providing your fiddle leaf fig with the necessary light it needs to grow and thrive, especially if you live in a location with limited natural light.
When choosing a grow light for fiddle leaf figs, it’s essential to consider factors such as the spectrum, wattage, coverage area, energy efficiency, heat output, durability, and ease of use. By selecting the right grow light and adjusting the light cycle as necessary, you can help ensure that your fiddle leaf fig plant grows and flourishes for years to come.