Can You Separate a Rubber Tree Plant?

As a common indoor plant, rubber tree plant has become a popular choice for many plant lovers. However, as the plant grows larger, it may outgrow its current pot and may require to be separated or repotted. So, the question is, can you separate a rubber tree plant? Yes, you can. In this article, we will discuss how to separate a rubber tree plant and repot it correctly.

When to Separate a Rubber Tree Plant?

Before we jump into the steps of separating a rubber tree plant, you need to know when it is the right time to do so. Generally, rubber tree plants should be separated when they become root-bound or overgrown for their current pot. Signs of a root-bound plant include roots poking out of the drainage holes or becoming excessively compact. Additionally, if the foliage is exceeding its pot's size or the leaves are curling or wilting, it may be time to upgrade its current pot.

Steps of Separating a Rubber Tree Plant

Step 1: Prepare the new pot. Choose a new pot that is one size bigger than the current pot. Fill it with enough soil to ensure that the bottom of the plant's root ball is roughly one inch below the new pot's rim. Add additional soil if necessary.

Step 2: Water the plant. Water the plant to make the soil moist before moving it. A moist root ball will help the plant cope with the separation shock.

Step 3: Take off the plant from its current pot. Gently tap the bottom and sides of the pot to loosen the soil, then flip the pot over with one hand supporting the base of the plant. You can slide your other hand around the base and gently pull to help remove the plant.

Step 4: Examine the roots. Carefully examine the plant roots and remove any dark, mushy, or damaged roots. This process will help prevent fungus or rot from spreading to the new soil.

Step 5: Separate the plant. If the plant is too big and difficult to handle, use a sterile cutting blade to cut the root ball into two or more sections. Make sure to keep each section undamaged as possible.

Step 6: Repot the plant. Place each separated plant section into the new pot as desired and fill it with soil. Gently press the soil down to ensure there are no air pockets. Water the plant and let the excess water drain from the bottom of the pot.

Aftercare for a Separated Rubber Tree Plant

After separating a rubber tree plant and repotting it, there are a few things you can do to ensure it grows healthily. Firstly, avoid overwatering the newly separated plant, as it is still in recovery mode. Secondly, keep the plant in a bright, well-lit area, but not in direct sunlight. Lastly, avoid fertilizing the plant until it has adjusted to its new pot and shows signs of new growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, separating a rubber tree plant is an easy process if you follow the right steps. You should pay attention to the signs before separating and prepare new pots, water the plant, examine and separate the roots, and finally repot the plant. In the end, proper aftercare will help the plant adjust to its new environment and allow it to grow healthy and robust.