How to grow a rubber plant to make it more vigorous
This article provides an overview of the knowledge related to how to grow a rubber plant to make it more vigorous and the detailed maintenance points of rubber plants. Next, let me give you a detailed answer.
Have you ever heard of rubber plants, garden friends? Their appearance does not resemble their name; they are not soft like rubber, but are tall trees similar to banyan trees.
In fact, rubber plants are very easy to grow. They prefer a warm and humid environment, so they are more suitable for gardeners in the south. Their leaves are green and glossy, very beautiful, and they also have a high ornamental value. Moreover, placing them indoors can help purify the air. So, how can we grow rubber plants well? Let's take a look at these four aspects!
I. Pot and Soil
Firstly, it's about the pot and soil for rubber plants. You can choose a slightly larger pot for growing rubber plants because they grow very fast, and their root systems are also well-developed. Small pots won't do. However, some gardeners do not want rubber plants to grow too fast, thinking they take up too much space, and can also use smaller pots to inhibit their growth.
Although rubber plants do not have many requirements for soil, since they are potted, it is still possible to be a bit particular about the soil mixture. It is essential to use well-draining soil, mixing equal parts of garden soil, decayed leaf soil, and river sand, and adding a portion of organic compost before potting to ensure better growth of the rubber plant!
How to grow a rubber plant to make it more vigorous
II. Watering and Fertilizing
Next is watering and fertilizing. Rubber plants have a very high drought tolerance, so they do not need excessive watering. In the growing season, you can water a bit more to promote faster and better growth of the rubber plant. In the hot summer, more water can be added due to rapid evaporation. However, in winter, when the temperature is low and evaporation is slow, the plant needs less water, and watering should be reduced accordingly to avoid burdening the roots.
Also, rubber plants are very fond of fertilizers. During the growing season, more fertilizing can be done. Generally, a balanced compound fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be used, about once every two weeks, which will make the leaves of the rubber plant oily and glossy. However, in winter, when the temperature is low and plant growth is slow, fertilizing should be avoided. Keeping the soil slightly moist will help it survive the winter safely.
III. Lighting
Moreover, many friends may think that rubber plants prefer shade, but that's not the case. Rubber plants love the sun. In the south, you can often see rubber plants by the roadside, which are not afraid of wind and sun exposure and grow more vigorously. Therefore, ample sunlight is very beneficial for the growth of rubber plants. Besides, except for placing them in a ventilated and shady place during the hot summer noon, it's best to keep them in full sun the rest of the time!