If you buy a rubber tree, it is usually a relatively young and therefore small plant that rarely has branches. As the rubber tree gets older, it forms side shoots, but only if it feels comfortable in its location.
How can I make my rubber tree branch?
To encourage a rubber tree to branch, place it in a bright location, increase watering and fertilizing if necessary, and trim the plant above a sleeping eye if necessary.
The rubber tree only branches when it has reached a certain size. As a rule, it is at least 1.5 to 2 meters high. If it is bright and warm and receives the right care, then this usually happens all by itself. If nothing is happening with your rubber tree despite being the right size, you can give it a little help.
What can I do to make my rubber tree branch?
First, examine the environment around your rubber tree. Does it really get enough light in its place? He prefers to be very bright and is very sensitive to drafts. A rubber tree doesn't need a lot of water, but if you water it too little, it won't branch.
The same applies to fertilizing. Here too you should stick to the right amount. If you have not fertilized your rubber tree for a long time, then do so again. If fertilization is too abundant, pause for a few months. In this case, your rubber tree probably grew tall quite quickly.
Can I promote branching by cutting?
If a rubber tree is cut, for example shortened in height, it will sprout again below the cut point. The first cut often only produces one or two shoots, but with further cuts there can be more. Always cut just above a sleeping eye, as the rubber tree will sprout at this point. If you are also planning to propagate, then so-called moss removal may be an alternative.
Tips for branching a rubber tree:
- make it brighter
- water and fertilize more if necessary
- Short the plant
- abmoosen
Tip
If your rubber tree does not branch as expected, then change the location and care, alternatively cutting can help.
