- Light: Rubber trees prefer bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning or late afternoon, but avoid intense midday sun, which can scorch the leaves. Insufficient light can result in leggy growth and leaf drop.
- Watering: Allow the top inch or two of the soil to dry out between waterings. Then, water the plant thoroughly, ensuring that excess water drains away. Avoid letting the plant sit in water, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering during the winter months when growth slows down.
- Humidity: Rubber trees appreciate moderate to high humidity levels. If the air in your home is dry, especially during the winter months or in heated indoor spaces, consider increasing humidity by misting the leaves, using a humidifier, or placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water.
- Temperature: Rubber trees prefer temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but are sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. Protect them from cold air near windows or doors during the winter.
- Potting Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix formulated for houseplants or tropical plants. A mix containing peat moss, perlite, and/or vermiculite works well. Repot the plant every 1-2 years, or when it outgrows its current pot, using fresh potting soil.
- Fertilizing: Feed your rubber tree with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization frequency or stop altogether during the fall and winter months when growth slows down.
- Pruning: Prune your rubber tree as needed to maintain its desired size and shape. Remove any dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves, as well as leggy growth. Pruning can also help encourage bushier growth.
- Cleaning: Dust the leaves of your rubber tree regularly with a damp cloth or sponge to keep them clean and free of dust. This not only improves the plant’s appearance but also helps it photosynthesize more efficiently.
- Pest Control: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Propagation: Rubber trees can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a cutting with at least two nodes and place it in water or moist potting soil until roots develop. Once rooted, transplant the cutting into its own pot.