Indoor Rubber Plant

Ficus Elastica also known as indoor rubber plant is one of the most widely known Ficus houseplants. It requires well-drained and moist soil for appropriate growth. A good amount of light is essential for its growth. However, exposing it to direct sunlight for a longer period of time can prove to be harmful for it. Avoid placing it near air conditioners or air vents because too much of heat or too much cold can lead to its leaf loss.

Indoor rubber plant requires a moist and humid environment for its growth. Water it sufficiently around once a week but be careful as to not over water it. You can reduce the frequency of watering during winter. However, make sure to check the soil for adequate moisture while watering so that it doesn’t become soggy. Inspect the plant regularly otherwise pets and pests can affect it. Fertilizing it once a month is essential for its healthy growth. It may need to re-pot the plant when its roots become pot-bound or once every year while the plant is young. After it matures, you can re-plant it every 3 years.

You can prune its branches to acquire the shape and size you desire. Dusting the plant regularly helps clean the leaves because of which they can absorb light more efficiently. You can clean the leaves gently using a wet cloth. Dusting the plant regularly will make it look glossy and more appealing.

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Soil – Rubber plants don’t like to sit in water, so a well-draining soil is important. Expert suggests, in particular, that a “well-draining and well-aerated potting soil is needed. 1 part peat, 1 part pine bark and 1 part coarse sand (or perlite) is a good mix.”

Water – Rubber plants’ water needs vary according to season: In the growing season (summer), the plant should be kept moist. This includes wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or even misting them. During the dormant season, your plant may only need water once or twice a month. Watch for droopy leaves, which indicate a need for more water. Leaves that turn yellow and brown and drop signal over-watering.

Light – Rubber plants like bright light and a lot of it, but not direct sunlight. A sunny spot shielded by a sheer curtain is often perfect for rubber plants. You can tell if your rubber plant needs more light if it becomes leggy, its leaves lose their luster, and lower leaves fall off.

Plant Tip – Another tip is to water with lukewarm water. It explains, “Let cold tap water to stand until room temperature as this allows chlorine to evaporate and reduces the shock that cold water can cause to plant roots.