Cutting rubber plant

Question

i have a 20 foot rubber plant that is bending and needs to be re-potted and cut.

how do i cut it so that it doesn't stunt its growth and will the part i cut off root itself?

thanks

Answer 1

Rubber plants should root easily in a number of ways. It will probably need to callous over the cut end. Then put it in soil and keep moist.

You may be able to root it in water also.

You can probably take an air layer as well.  That would be to wound a branch, pack moist moss or peat around the wound and wrap in saran.

Pin a branch down to the soil and it will root after a while. (months)

As for pruning: Pruning doesn't stunt growth unless you continuously cut it at the same place every time the plant tries to grow out.

pruning simply changes the direction of growth. Make you cut right above the node on the branch. That is the little line that rings arounf the stem. Leaves sprout from that point, as do branches. If that plant is 20' it is likely overgrown. I would take it way back. Will make it branch out and be healthier.

Repotting:   generally move to the next size container, usually about 2" larger than the current one. Plant it the same depth as it is now. Fertilize with slow release fertilizer and water.

TopCatt