Dying Rubber Trees
4 messages in this thread
I have two 4 foot rubber trees that sufferd a short spat out in the cold. I
don't know much about plants but I suspect yellow and brown leaves all
around them on the floor are not a good sign. Should I remove any of the
unhealthy leaves that are still on them? I'd really like to see these
plants live but my past experience has shown me that my plants generaly
don't. Well, actually, not all my plants die. I have three cactus that grow
visably every day. Can anyone give me any suggestions as to the optimal
conditions for rubber trees?
Thanks in advance for any help.
Whoops, there goes another rubber tree plant… (sorry, couldn't resist.)
I'd say let the leaves drop on their own. If the main stems weren't
frosted, it should spring back. Or if they were, chop them off. I just
got a few leggy rubber plants from a neighbor – I chopped them in half,
dipped the fresh tips in Rootone, and stuck them in moist soil, and they
didn't flinch. The leaf-less rooted parts are still alive, and I expect
them to branch and leaf, too.
Hello Ben,
Your rubber trees will need water less frequently now that they have lost
so many leaves. Always test the soil with your fingertips prior to
watering, if it seems wet, don't water. Wait until the soil is slightly
(not completely) dry before watering – it may seem to take a long time, but
be patient.
Alison