How to cultivate Indian rubber plant
This article introduces the cultivation of Indian rubber plant and the explanation of its growing methods, let's take a look together.
The rubber tree, actually known as Indian rubber plant, is a type of tree. Although the ones we usually keep at home are miniatures, it can grow up to several meters tall. The leaves are very thick and leathery, oblong in shape, with a deep green and glossy surface. The rubber tree can also be planted from small seedlings, and it is interesting to plant your own cuttings. Mini rubber plant potted plants are as beautiful and eye-catching as mini money trees, suitable for placing on desks or window sills.
There are several types of potted rubber plants, with both green-leaved and variegated ones. Their planting methods are similar. So, how to care for and maintain potted rubber plants?
1. The size of the pot should be determined by the size of the plant
If the rubber plant has a larger shape, a larger pot is definitely needed, with a diameter of at least 20 centimeters or more. If it is a miniature plant, a smaller pot is needed, either a ceramic or earthenware pot. For the soil medium, some granules, such as larger sand or some vermiculite and perlite, should be added to facilitate better root ventilation and drainage.
2. Rubber plants fear excessive watering and poor ventilation
Sometimes when we keep potted rubber plants at home, we notice that their leaves turn yellow or the edges of the leaves have burnt or black edges, or even the leaves fall off, and other unhealthy conditions. In fact, when growing rubber plants, it is important to choose a suitable growing environment. Generally, we keep them on the balcony or indoors, so the potted rubber plant should be placed in a well-ventilated area.
How to cultivate Indian rubber plant
Usually, attention should also be paid to watering. Excessive water is not good. Although the potting soil should be watered when it is dry, it should not accumulate water. Excessive water and poor ventilation can easily cause root rot. If there is waterlogging, stop watering in time, then place it in a place where it can be ventilated, maintaining good ventilation until it recovers, and it is fine as long as new leaves grow.
3. Rubber plants cannot be without sunlight for a long time
In conditions of weak sunlight or long-term insufficient sunlight, and lack of fresh moving air, they will also be in poor condition, so these two points should be noted.
4. How to overwinter rubber plants
In addition, rubber plants are not very cold-resistant and can easily get frostbite below zero degrees, so maintaining a temperature above five degrees is more suitable. In winter, place them in a place with plenty of sunlight and sheltered from the wind, reduce watering, and increase some phosphorus and potassium fertilizer in autumn, which can also enhance their cold resistance.