How often to water a rubber plant
Ficus elastica
Every 1 to 2 weeks, when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil are dry.
Rubber plants want a thorough watering and then a partial dry-out. They slow down a lot in fall and winter, and so should the watering.
Rubber plant schedule
Water
- Spring and summer
- About every 1 to 2 weeks
- Fall and winter
- About every 2 to 3 weeks
Feed
- Spring and summer
- Monthly, balanced liquid feed at half strength
- Fall and winter
- None
Check the soil first. Water only when it is as dry as this guide says.
How to tell it is time to water
Check the top 1 to 2 inches of soil. Water when dry, until it runs from the drainage hole.
Signs of overwatering
- Yellow leaves that drop, starting low on the stem
- Soft, dark stems near the soil
- Soil that stays wet
Signs of underwatering
- Drooping or curling leaves
- Leaves dropping after the soil has been bone dry
- Crispy brown edges
Light and pot
- Light
- Bright, indirect light, with some gentle direct sun if it is used to it. Low light makes it leggy and slows water use.
- Pot and soil
- A pot with a drainage hole and a well-draining potting mix.
- Pets
- Listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach.
This schedule is general guidance for a healthy indoor plant. Light, temperature, humidity, pot size and soil all change how fast it dries out, so check the soil before you water and adjust.