Hi friends! I decided to try something I’ve been wanting to try for a few years now. I recently moved our 6 foot fiddle leaf fig tree outside, to the back patio. I’m scared. I love “Jewel”. I had my kids name her when we got her. Yes, it’s strange. Yes, I love plants. Yes, I am the crazy plant lady! I have somehow managed to keep Jewel alive for over 3 years, and I don’t want this move outside to kill her! Obviously, it’s a temporary move, as we live in Kansas and it will only be hot and humid enough for her for a few months, but I am going for it. Here, you can read all about when we first got her, as well as see pictures of how full she used to be…hence my need to move her outside!
I know FLFs love humidity and heat and indirect sunlight. I’ve read stories of people moving them outside and them growing several new leaves and branches during that time. Well, I’m going for it this year. We have a covered back patio and I’m keeping her back enough against the house that her leaves will not burn (the black piece just above her is where our TV connects). She will get some direct sunlight, but late in the day for a few hours as the sun begins to set. I know they are finicky and don’t like to be moved, but I’m hoping this is a good move, away from the air conditioning vent, into the hot and humid air.
Now, I have a space indoors that just looks barren without her. I’m going to have to come up with something for the summer months. I’m most definitely going to have to water Jewel more than I normally would if she were still indoors. I basically ignore her for several weeks until she dries out before giving her water. Now, I will have to check about once a week to see if she needs a drink. This was her old spot in our eating space.
The branches of the tree are not full like they once were, but as long as I see new growth and new leaves, I know she is hanging in there. I did move her from an indoor lined basket to a more durable outdoor planter (it’s still too big for the planter, but I’m just leaving it).
Why do they have to be so finicky?…and expensive?…but, they are just so dramatic and pretty. I am such a sucker for a tropical plant. It’s too bad I live in Kansas, so I mostly have to enjoy these guys indoors. I”ll keep you posted on what happens over the summer. Hopefully I won’t have to move her back in any time soon. I’ve been wanting to do this for a few years and finally got the courage to try it. Hopefully I will get lucky! Tips and suggestions welcome! Happy summer! xo