The rubber tree is not considered robust and easy to care for for nothing. Apart from plenty of light and heat, it doesn't need much. Water it moderately and protect it from drafts and your rubber tree will grow and thrive.
What light requirements does a rubber tree have?
The rubber tree needs a bright location without direct midday sun, ideally in a window that faces east or west. It tolerates light shade, but lack of light can cause color and leaf loss. In summer it can be left outside.
It's best to place your rubber tree so that it doesn't get the full midday sun. Sunburn or brown spots on the leaves could result. Windows that face east or west are best suited for this houseplant.
Can I plant my rubber tree in the garden?
The rubber tree is not suitable as a garden plant in our latitudes because it is not hardy. However, you are welcome to put it outside in the summer. However, the nights should also be mild, because the rubber tree does not like cold temperatures.
As soon as the nights get cool in the fall, bring your rubber tree back indoors. It is better to do this too early rather than too late to avoid damaging the plant. At about the same time, you can stop fertilizing your rubber tree until next spring. The rubber tree also needs less water in winter than in the summer months.
What happens if my rubber tree is too dark?
The rubber tree can react quite sensitively to a lack of light. In varieties with colored or variegated foliage, the color of the leaves suffers first. A green-leaved rubber tree also tolerates light shade. However, if it is too dark, your rubber tree may drop its leaves.
The most important things in brief:
- prefers a bright location
- colorful varieties need more light
- plain green rubber trees also tolerate partial shade
- Avoid the blazing midday sun
- Lack of light leads to loss of color and leaves
- ideal: window facing east or west
- can go outside in summer
Tip
If you want to enjoy your rubber tree for a long time, then place it in a bright, warm place without drafts or direct midday sun.
