Introduction

Rubber tree plants are a popular indoor plant because of their large, shiny leaves and easy maintenance. However, it can be alarming to see the leaves start to fall off, especially if you are not sure why it is happening. In this article, we will explore some of the reasons why leaves may fall off a rubber tree plant and what you can do to prevent it from happening.

Overwatering

Overwatering is a common cause of leaf drop in rubber tree plants. When too much water is applied, the roots may become waterlogged and unable to absorb oxygen, which leads to root rot. Eventually, the plant will start to wilt and its leaves will begin to turn yellow, brown, or black before falling off.

To prevent overwatering, make sure that the plant is in a well-draining pot with a drainage hole, and only water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. Also, avoid using containers or saucers that retain water or keep the plant in a tray of water as this can lead to root damage.

Underwatering

On the other hand, underwatering can also cause leaves to fall off a rubber tree plant. When a plant does not receive enough water, it will start to conserve water by shedding leaves to reduce transpiration. This can manifest as yellowing or browning of leaf edges and eventual leaf drop.

To prevent underwatering, make sure that the plant is in a pot with good drainage and water it regularly, but avoid overwatering. Also, make sure that the potting soil is able to retain moisture by adding a layer of mulch or coconut coir on top to prevent it from drying out too quickly.

Low Humidity

Rubber tree plants are native to tropical regions, and as such, they thrive in high humidity. Low humidity, on the other hand, can cause the leaves to dry out and fall off. This is especially true in dry indoor environments such as homes and offices with air conditioning or heating systems.

To increase the humidity around the plant, you can mist the leaves regularly with water, place a humidifier nearby, or put a tray of water near the plant to evaporate and increase the moisture in the air.

Temperature Changes

Temperature changes can also cause leaves to fall off a rubber tree plant. Extreme heat or cold can cause stress to the plant and cause it to shed leaves. For example, if the plant is near a window on a sunny day, the leaves may start to wilt and fall off if it gets too hot. Similarly, if the plant is exposed to cold drafts, the leaves may become brittle and fall off.

To prevent temperature changes from affecting the plant, make sure that it is placed in a consistent environment with temperatures between 60-85°F (16-29°C). Avoid placing it near windows or vents that expose it to extremes of heat or cold.

Pest Infestation

Finally, a pest infestation can cause leaves to fall off a rubber tree plant. Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects, which can suck the sap out of the leaves and cause them to wither and drop off. Other signs of pest infestation may include webbing, sticky residue, or tiny insects on the leaves and stem of the plant.

To prevent and treat pest infestations, regularly inspect the plant for signs of damage, clean the leaves with a damp cloth to remove debris and insects, and use a natural insecticide such as neem oil or insecticidal soap to kill off any pests that may be present.

Conclusion

In conclusion, leaves may fall off a rubber tree plant due to a variety of reasons including overwatering, underwatering, low humidity, temperature changes, and pest infestation. By understanding the causes of leaf drop and taking preventative measures, you can keep your rubber tree plant healthy and looking its best.