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If you’re a fiddle leaf fig lover, then you know that sometimes they can be a little bit unpredictable. One day everything is going well, and the next you’re dealing with a problem that’s seemingly appeared out of nowhere!

And one of those can be when you wake up one morning and notice white spots on your fiddle leaf fig. This is a fairly common problem for fiddle leaf fig owners and as you’ll see, with a little know-how, you can easily remedy this issue. Keep reading to see what you should do next!

white spots on a fiddle leaf fig

What are the white spots on my fiddle leaf figs?

There are a few different things that can cause white spots on fiddle leaf figs. The most common culprit is powdery mildew. This is a type of fungus that thrives in humid environments. If you live in an area with high humidity, then your plant is more susceptible to this disease.

Another possible cause of white spots is hard water. This is water that has high mineral content. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind these minerals on the leaves of your plant. This can cause the leaves to develop spots and white outlines.

You may also notice white spots on your fiddle leaf fig due to too much light. If your plant is in direct sunlight, the leaves can develop white spots. This is because the sun can cause the leaves to lose their pigment as a preemptive response to a plant whose leaves are being burnt.

Finally, white spots can also be caused by pests. One of the most common pests that affect fiddle leaf figs is spider mites. These tiny creatures are hard to see with the naked eye, but they can do a lot of damage to your plant. They feed on the sap of the plant, which can cause the leaves to develop spots and eventually turn yellow.

As you can see, there are a wide range of reasons for the appearance of white spots on fiddle leaf figs. However, don’t worry! There are a few things that you can do in order to treat this problem and some ways that you can specifically identify the root cause.

small white spots on a fiddle leaf fig

What do spots on a fiddle leaf fig mean?

If you’re dealing with a pest problem, there are some specific entities that cause white spots on fiddle leaf figs. This includes the mosaic virus, fig mites, and scale insects. You will need to treat your plant with natural or commercial pesticides or remove your fiddle leaf plant from your home if the infestation is bad enough.

Here is a breakdown of some of the more common fiddle leaf fig pests and diseases which can cause this issue:

1. Mosaic virus

The mosaic virus is a plant virus that is spread by an insect known as the fig mite. This virus causes the leaves of your plant to develop white spots. The most common symptom of this virus is leaf distortion. However, it can also cause the leaves to develop white spots that eventually lead to yellowing.

Unfortunately, once your fiddle leaf fig is infected with the mosaic virus, there is no cure. The best thing that you can do is to isolate your plant from other plants and to keep an eye on it for any further symptoms. You may also want to completely remove the tree to prevent the virus from spreading to other plants in your home.

2. Fig mites

Fig mites are tiny spider-like creatures that feed on the sap of plants. They are most commonly found in humid environments. These creatures can cause the leaves of your plant to develop white spots and eventually turn yellow. If you think that your plant has fig mites, it’s important to treat it as soon as possible.

The best way to get rid of fig mites is to use a pesticide that is specifically designed for them – our top pick is Natria Organic Insecticidal Soap (check the latest price here).

You should also make sure to treat any other plants in your home that may be affected.

hard water spots on a fiddle leaf fig showing as white spots
You can see smaller white spots on this fiddle leaf fig scattered over its leaves

3. Scale insects

Scale insects are another type of pest that can cause white spots on fiddle leaf figs. This group of insects includes mealybugs, whiteflies, and aphids. They are all small creatures that feed on the sap of plants. This can cause the leaves to develop spots and eventually turn yellow.

If you think that your plant has scale insects, it’s important to treat it as soon as possible. One of the best ways to get rid of them is to use neem oil – I prefer PetraTools Pure Neem Oil (get the up to date price here). Another natural solution is horticultural oil, if you already have that on hand.

4. Powdery mildew

Powdery mildew is a type of fungus that affects a wide range of plants, including fiddle leaf figs. This disease is most commonly found in humid environments. It causes the leaves of your plant to develop white spots and eventually lose their pigment and structure.

In order to treat powdery mildew on fiddle leaf figs, you can use a fungicide that is specifically designed for this disease. Bonide Sulfur Plant Fungicide is perfect for treating powdery mildew (you can check its latest price here). 

You can also try using a natural solution such as baking soda or using a fan to improve air circulation around your plant.

How do you get rid of white spots on fiddle leaf fig leaves?

1. Remove your fiddle leaf plant from direct sunlight

As mentioned before, if your plant is in direct sunlight, the leaves can develop white spots. In order to prevent this from happening, you should remove your plant from direct sunlight. 

Instead, place your fiddle leaf fig plant in an area where it will receive indirect sunlight or filtered light, such as a south- or west-facing window.

large white spots on a fiddle leaf fig
Source: seoulfully

2. Clean off water spots

Hard water spots on fiddle leaf figs can also develop as white spots on your plant’s leaves. This is because hard water contains minerals that can build up on the leaves of your plant. These minerals can eventually lead to yellowing and browning of the leaves because they cut off the plant’s access to air and possibly sunlight.

To remove existing hard water spots, you can use a soft cloth and rubbing alcohol to gently wipe them away. You can also try using a vinegar solution (one part vinegar to four parts water). Once you’ve removed the spots, be sure to rinse the leaves with clean water.

Find out more: How to Clean Fiddle Leaf Fig Leaves (Step-by-Step Guide)

3. Wash the leaves with soapy water

Soapy water can help to kill off pests and diseases that may be causing white spots on your fiddle leaf fig leaves. To make soapy water, you can use mild dish soap or Castile soap. Mix one teaspoon of soap with one quart of water. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down the leaves of your plant.

Be sure to rinse the leaves with clean water afterward, similar to how you would with vinegar and alcohol. You don’t want any residue from the soap to remain on the leaves of your plant.

4. Make a baking soda cleaner

Baking soda is a natural fungicide that can help to treat powdery mildew on fiddle leaf figs. To make a baking soda cleaner, mix one teaspoon of baking soda with one quart of water. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down the leaves of your plant.

You will notice a difference in the appearance of your plant within a few days. The white spots should start to fade and the leaves should look healthier overall. Baking soda can also be used to treat hard water spots on fiddle leaf figs. Simply follow the instructions above.

5. Use a pesticide

There are many commercial pesticides that can be used to treat white spots on fiddle leaf figs. However, it’s important to read the labels carefully and choose a pesticide that is specifically designed for the problem you’re dealing with it. You also don’t want to use a pesticide that is too strong and ends up damaging your plant.

small white spots on a fiddle leaf fig
You can see white spots on this fiddle leaf fig that are more powdery in appearance. Source: M1n1_Maya

6. Make an organic pesticide

If you’re not interested in using a commercial pesticide, you can make your own organic pesticide. To do this, mix two tablespoons of neem oil with one gallon of water. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down the leaves of your plant.

You can also use apple cider vinegar with one gallon of water. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down the leaves of your plant. Consider trying essential oils such as eucalyptus oil or peppermint oil that can help to treat white spot-causing pests and prevent them from coming back.

How do I get water stains off my fiddle leaf fig?

Water stains on a fiddle leaf fig are caused by minerals such as calcium and magnesium that are found in hard water. These minerals can build up on the leaves after the water evaporates, and can be easily removed by wiping the leaves with a soft cloth and rubbing alcohol or vinegar solution.

Sometimes plain water will work well for cleaning up these water spots, especially if you clean them up with regularity. You can use distilled or purified water that has had the minerals removed to avoid these spots altogether.

How to prevent white spots on a fiddle leaf fig

If you don’t want to deal with pesky white spots on your fiddle leaf fig in the first place, follow these tips:

1. Don’t water your plant with hard water

You can prevent hard water spots on fiddle leaf figs by using distilled water or rainwater to water your plant. If you live in an area with hard water, you should also consider getting a water filter for your fiddle leaf fig.

fiddle leaf fig with white spots on its leaves

2. Create ventilation and airflow in your plant’s environment

Good ventilation and airflow can help to prevent powdery mildew from developing on your plant. This is because the spores of this fungus need moist conditions in order to thrive.

You can create good ventilation and airflow by opening up windows or using a fan in the room where your plant is located.

3. Regularly dust or mist your plant

Another great way to prevent powdery mildew is to regularly dust or mist your plant. This will help to keep the leaves clean and make it more difficult for the fungus to take hold.

You can use a soft cloth or brush to dust the leaves of your plant. You can also use a spray bottle filled with water to lightly mist the leaves. Make sure to use filtered or distilled water when misting your leaves to avoid any water spots.

4. Keep your plant out of direct sunlight

Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves of your fiddle leaf fig to become sunburned. This can make the leaves more susceptible to powdery mildew and other diseases.

You should keep your plant in an area that receives indirect or filtered sunlight. If you live in a hot climate, you may need to place your plant in a shaded area to protect it from the harsh sun.

Find out more: What Are Your Fiddle Leaf Fig’s Light Needs?

5. Fertilize your plant regularly

Fertilizing your fiddle leaf fig regularly can help to keep it healthy and prevent fiddle leaf fig problems such as powdery mildew. Look for a fertilizer that is specifically designed for fiddle leaf figs.

You should fertilize your plant every two to 4 weeks during the growing season and less often during the winter. Make sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging to avoid over-fertilizing your plant.

Best fertilizer for Fiddle Leaf Figs

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food

A great fertilizer with the perfect balance for your fiddle leaf fig. Simply dissolve in water and feed your plant to watch it thrive.

6. Don’t let your plant stress out

One of the most important things you can do to prevent white spots on a fiddle leaf fig is to avoid letting your plant stress out. This can happen if you move your plant around too much, expose it to drafts, or neglect its watering needs.

Try to keep your plant in a stable environment and water it on a regular basis. If you notice your plant starting to stress out, take steps to correct the problem right away.

7. Always clean your tools before using them on your plant

If you use dirty tools when working with your fiddle leaf fig, you could transfer diseases or pests to the plant. Always clean your tools with rubbing alcohol or soapy water before using them on your plant.

You should also disinfect pruning shears after each use to prevent the spread of diseases. You can do this by dipping the blades in rubbing alcohol or a diluted bleach solution.

8. Regularly check all of your plants for pests

Pests can quickly become a problem for fiddle leaf figs. If you notice any pests on your plant, you should take steps to remove them right away. The sooner you identify this problem, the better chances you have of saving your plant.

Regularly checking all of your plants for pests is the best way to prevent an infestation. You should also quarantine any new plants before adding them to your collection to make sure they don’t have any pests.

9. Use a little essential oil around the base of the plant

If you’re trying to prevent white spots on your fiddle leaf fig, you may want to try using a little essential oil around the base of the plant. This can help to discourage pests and diseases.

There are a few different essential oils that work well for this purpose. You can try using lavender oil, peppermint oil, or eucalyptus oil. Just add a few drops of the oil to a cotton ball and place it around the base of your plant.

10. Don’t overcrowd your plants

If you have multiple fiddle leaf figs, make sure to space them out so they have room to grow. Overcrowding can lead to problems such as powdery mildew and other diseases.

It’s best to keep each plant in its own pot so they have enough room to spread out. You should also avoid placing them too close together when you’re potting them.

11. Don’t overwater your plants

Overwatering a fiddle leaf fig is one of the most common problems people have with this plant. Even though this plant likes a good amount of moisture, it needs to drain well to avoid problems such as root rot and white spots.

12. Prune any unhealthy leaves

If you notice any leaves on your fiddle leaf fig that are unhealthy, you should prune them off. This can help to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.

It’s best to use clean, sharp pruning shears when doing this. You should also disinfect the blades after each use to prevent the spread of diseases.

Get more information: How to Prune a Fiddle Leaf Fig

What does fungus look like on a fiddle leaf fig?

Fungus on a fiddle leaf fig can appear as white spots or powdery mildew on the leaves of the plant. The fungus may also cause the leaves to look yellow or brown. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should take steps to treat the fungus right away.

You may feel the impulse to simply wipe away the fungus with a cloth. However, it’s important to avoid doing this as it can spread the fungus to other parts of the plant. This is because the spores rely on moisture and external movement to spread.

The best way to treat fungus is to use a fungicide. You can find these at most garden stores or online. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully. Natural fungicides that contain sulfur can also be effective.