Rubber plant care: watering, light and repotting
Also called rubber tree, rubber fig · Ficus elastica · Moraceae family
16 d in winter
How often to water the rubber plant?
Allow about 9 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 16 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Its thick leaves store water: a little too dry is better than too wet.
What light does it need?
The rubber plant likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 3–8 ft (1–2.5 m).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Lower leaves falling
Cause: Too much water or not enough light. What to do: Water less and move it closer to the light.
Dull leaves
Cause: Dust. What to do: Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the rubber plant?
About every 9 days in spring and summer, and every 16 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the rubber plant?
The rubber plant likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the rubber plant?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the rubber plant?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the rubber plant safe?
The rubber plant is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the rubber plant forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.