How to manage a rubber tree
Today, I will elaborate on how to manage a rubber tree and share some experience on the cultivation techniques and green plant maintenance aspects of rubber tree care. Let's find out together below.
Have you ever heard of rubber trees, flower friends? Their appearance does not resemble their name. They are not soft like rubber, but rather tall trees similar to banyan trees.
In fact, rubber trees are very easy to care for, preferring warm and humid environments, making them more suitable for southern gardeners. Their leaves are green and glossy, very beautiful, and have high ornamental value. Moreover, placing them indoors can purify the air. So, how can we take good care of rubber trees? Let's take a look at these four aspects together!
I. Pot and Soil
Firstly, let's talk about the pot and soil for rubber trees. When growing rubber trees, you can choose a slightly larger pot because they grow very fast and have a well-developed root system. Small pots won't allow them to grow properly. However, some gardeners do not want rubber trees to grow too fast, as they can take up a lot of space, and may choose a smaller pot to inhibit their growth.
Rubber trees do not have high soil requirements, but since they are potted, the soil mix can be a bit more refined. It is essential to choose a soil with good drainage, mixing equal parts of garden soil, decomposed leaf mold, and river sand, and adding a portion of organic compost before potting. This will help the rubber tree grow better!
How to manage a rubber tree
II. Watering and Fertilizing
Next is watering and fertilizing. Rubber trees have strong drought resistance and do not require excessive watering. During the growing season, you can water a bit more to promote faster and better growth. In hot summer months, more water can be given due to rapid evaporation, but in winter, when temperatures are low and evaporation is slow, the plant requires less water. Reduce watering accordingly to avoid burdening the roots.
Also, rubber trees love fertilizer. During the peak growing season, more fertilizer can be applied. Generally, a balanced compound fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is sufficient, applied every two weeks. This will make the leaves of the rubber tree lush and glossy. However, in winter, when the temperature is low and plant growth is slow, it's best not to fertilize and maintain slightly moist soil to help it survive the winter safely.
III. Sunlight
Also, many friends think that rubber trees prefer shade, but that's not the case. Rubber trees love sunlight. In the south, we often see rubber trees by the roadside, which are not afraid of wind and sun, and grow more vigorously. Therefore, sufficient sunlight is very beneficial for the growth of rubber trees. Apart from placing them in a shaded and ventilated area during the hottest part of the summer, it's best to keep them in full sunlight the rest of the time!