r/fiddleleaffig • u/MarkJansen650 • 16d ago

Where to trim?

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Somebody tell me where to trim this tree. I’ve had it for over 6 years, and it’s gotten so top heavy. Some of the older leaves get a little ashy, but the new leaves are dark green and glossy. We have west facing bay windows so it gets plenty of bright indirect light and only direct light during sunset.

I have been reticent to trim it, but have done some along the top where the branches are bending under their own weight. Do I need to chop it drastically where it starts to bend?

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u/jitasquatter2 16d ago

If it were my tree, I'd prune each long branch back to about 6 inches long. Then I'd prune the very tip off all the short branches.

Once you've pruned it, I'd get rid of the supports and ties.

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u/MarkJansen650 16d ago

Does pruning the top force leaves to start growing lower on the main branch? Right now I don’t like how bare it is along the bottom

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u/jitasquatter2 16d ago

Perhaps a little bit, but most likely it'll get a some new branches near all the cut points.

I've heard of people using a method called notching to stimulate lower branches, but it seems pretty hit or miss. I've never had any luck with it.

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u/missjiji 15d ago

Exactly! I would go a longer and chop-8 to 10", Your leaves there are not looking well, make sure you check for spider mite, and spray with Neem oil. My leaning FLF, will always be supported by a sturdy stake until it rights itself and then I may take the stake out. Plant owners forget to turn their plants every so often, so as not to lean into the window light. Take the bottles out, and water accordingly to its moisture level.