Ficus Elastica (Variegated)

Included in Arrangement

• Ficus Elastica: 1 Plant (35cm)
• Black Potorzo Fiberglass Pot: (L: 18cm x 20cmH)

Care

The rubber plant (Ficus elastica) is a famous Ficus genus decorative plant. It may grow to be over 30 metres tall in its native habitat, but the variations produced inside are considerably more manageable.

This is a good choice for the indoor grower seeking for a tree type plant species with beautiful leaves that can grow from 1ft to over 8ft tall.

Temperature: Room temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 24 degrees Celsius) are suitable. Avoid temperatures below 55°F (12°C), temperature dips, and cold drafts.

Light: A well-lit area away from direct sunshine is preferable.

Watering: Water when the soil seems somewhat dry to the touch, and ensure sure the pot has enough drainage holes to enable excess water to drain. The worst thing you can do when it comes to watering is “give it too much.”

Soil: A well-draining, aerated potting soil is required. A suitable combination is 1 part peat, 1 part pine bark, and 1 part gritty sand (or perlite).

Re-Potting: From May to June, re-pot when the roots become pot bound or once a year while the plants are extremely young, and then once every three years once the plant has developed. Every year, the media should be replenished.

Fertilizer: Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer every two weeks.

Humidity: Normal room humidity is adequate. When it gets hot in July, spray the leaves to increase humidity.

Propagation: These can be difficult to grow via stem tip cuttings, but it is possible. Take a small cutting (a few inches long) and let the sap dry for 1 hour. Use rooting hormone before potting the cutting in soil, and then apply heat to the bottom of the pot (usually using a heat pad). Ideally, the temperature should be regulated between 70°F (21°C) and 75°F (25°C).

Pruning: Once the rubber plant has reached the desired height, you can take the top off. You should also trim any undesirable branches to give the plant a fuller form. Pruning can be done at any time, but its best to avoid the rainy season as there’s tendency for fungal growth.

Cleaning: Your plants’ leaves will welcome being gently washed with lukewarm water, and you will like the glossy, dust-free appearance. Make use of a soft cloth or sponge.

Potential Issues

Over-watering is the most prevalent cause of leaf loss, and it must be addressed as soon as possible (renew top soil or re-pot —pot up—). Other factors that might cause leaves to fall include low temperatures, little light, and chilly drafts. Moving your plant from a bright to a dark area might also result in leaf drop. It’s natural for some of the bottom leaves to turn yellow and drop, but make sure everything is in order.

Yellowing leaf edges: This is a process of elimination. The issue might be due to poor soil, under-feeding, or an overabundance of water. You’ll need to go through each of the care recommendations above, remove what you’re doing well, and try to figure out what’s causing the problem.

Pests: Mealy bugs, scale, and mites are frequent pests that wreak havoc on this ficus tree.