Introduction

Rubber tree plants are beautiful, low-maintenance houseplants that can add a touch of greenery to any space. If you want to grow your own rubber tree plant, one of the easiest ways to do so is by using a cutting. In this guide, we will show you how to grow a rubber tree plant from a cutting step-by-step.

Gather Materials

Before you can start growing your rubber tree plant, you will need a few materials:

A healthy rubber tree plant with strong stems and leaves

Pruning shears or a sharp knife

A clean, shallow container

A rooting hormone (optional)

A soil mixture of equal parts peat moss, sand, and perlite

Select a Cutting

The best time to take a rubber tree plant cutting is in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Look for a stem that is between four and six inches long with at least two leaves. Using pruning shears or a sharp knife, cut the stem at a 45-degree angle below a leaf node.

Prepare the Cutting

Remove the lower leaves from the rubber tree plant cutting. This will leave a bare stem that you will insert into the rooting medium. You can dip the cutting in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. However, rooting hormone is not necessary for growing rubber tree plants from cuttings.

Plant the Cutting

Fill your container with your soil mixture and gently press it down. Make a hole in the soil with a pencil or your finger and insert the cutting into the soil. Press the soil around the stem, making sure it is firmly in place.

Water the Cutting

Water the soil around the cutting until it is moist but not soaking wet. Place the container in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. You can cover the container with a plastic bag or wrap to create a greenhouse-like environment for the cutting.

Care for the Cutting

Keep the soil around the cutting moist by watering it as needed. Mist the leaves with water once or twice a day to keep them hydrated. Check for root growth after four to six weeks by gently tugging on the stem. If you feel resistance, that means roots have formed.

Transplant the Rubber Tree Plant

Once the roots have formed, it's time to transplant your rubber tree plant into a larger container with fresh potting soil. Keep it in bright, indirect sunlight and water it regularly. You can fertilize your rubber tree plant every other month with a balanced liquid fertilizer to encourage growth.

Conclusion

Growing a rubber tree plant from a cutting is a fun and rewarding experience. With a little patience and the right materials, you can enjoy a beautiful, thriving rubber tree plant in your home. Happy planting!