How to Take a Cutting from a Rubber Tree Plant

Rubber tree plants, also known as Ficus elastica, are popular indoor houseplants due to their attractive foliage and ease of care. These plants can grow quite tall, reaching up to 100 feet in their natural habitat, but typically stay much smaller when grown indoors. If you want to propagate your rubber tree plant, one way to do so is by taking a cutting. Here are the steps you need to follow to successfully take a cutting from your rubber tree plant:

Gather your Supplies

Before you begin taking a cutting from your rubber tree plant, you need to gather the necessary supplies. Here's what you'll need:

A sharp, clean pair of pruning shears

A small pot filled with potting soil

A plastic bag or clear plastic wrap

A rubber band

Choose a Cutting

The first step in taking a cutting is to choose the right branch. Look for a healthy, mature branch that is at least 6 inches long with several leaves. The branch should not be too thin or too thick, as either can make it difficult for the cutting to root properly. Make sure to choose a branch that is free from damage or disease.

Cut the Branch

Using your pruning shears, make a clean cut just below a leaf node on the chosen branch. A leaf node is the point where a leaf attaches to the stem. Make sure to use sharp, clean shears to avoid damaging the branch or introducing disease.

Prepare the Cutting and Pot

Remove the leaves from the bottom third of the cutting, leaving at least two to three leaves at the top. This will help the cutting focus on growing roots rather than sustaining the leaves. Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth.

Fill a small pot with fresh potting soil and water it lightly. Use a pencil or your finger to poke a hole in the soil and insert the cutting, gently pressing the soil around it.

Cover the Pot

After planting the cutting, cover the pot with a plastic bag or clear plastic wrap, securing it with a rubber band. This will help to create a humid environment that will encourage the cutting to form roots. Place the pot in a bright, indirect light location.

Care for the Cutting

Keep the soil moist but not too wet, as this can cause the cutting to rot. Check the soil often and water as needed. Some people choose to mist the cutting with water once a day to maintain humidity. After a few weeks, you should be able to see new growth on the cutting, indicating that it has taken root.

Once the cutting has established roots, you can remove the plastic covering and gradually expose it to more light. When the cutting has grown a few more leaves and is strong enough to handle, you can gradually acclimate it to your regular care routine.

Taking a cutting from a rubber tree plant is a simple process that can reward you with a new plant to add to your collection or share with a friend. With a little patience and care, your cutting will be well on its way to becoming a healthy plant.