How to Repot Variegated Rubber Plant

If you’re a plant lover, you know how important it is to take care of your green babies. One of the most popular houseplants is the variegated rubber plant, known for its large, glossy leaves with creamy-white streaks. However, like all plants, the variegated rubber plant needs repotting at some point in its life to continue thriving. In this article, we’ll discuss when and how to repot your variegated rubber plant.

When to Repot Variegated Rubber Plant

The variegated rubber plant needs repotting every two to three years or when it outgrows its current pot. Signs that your plant needs repotting include:

• Roots are growing out of the drainage holes
• The soil dries out quickly after watering
• The plant appears top-heavy and falls over easily
• The pot is cracked or damaged

Materials Needed

Before you start repotting your variegated rubber plant, gather these materials:

• A larger pot with drainage holes
• Fresh potting soil
• Pruning shears
• Gardening gloves

Steps to Repot Variegated Rubber Plant

1. Choose a new pot: The new pot should be 2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot. Make sure it has drainage holes at the bottom.

2. Prepare fresh soil: Mix fresh potting soil with perlite or sand to improve drainage.

3. Water the plant: Water the plant thoroughly a day before repotting.

4. Remove the plant from its current pot: Hold the base of the stem and gently pull the plant out of its current pot. If it’s stuck, gently tap the sides of the pot or squeeze it to loosen the soil.

5. Check roots: Examine the roots for any signs of damage or disease. Trim off any brown or soft roots with pruning shears.

6. Add soil to the new pot: Fill the new pot with 1/3 of the fresh soil.

7. Place the plant in the new pot: Position the plant in the center of the new pot and add more soil around it until it reaches the same level as the old soil.

8. Tamp down soil: Gently tamp down the soil to remove any air pockets and make sure the plant is stable.

9. Water the plant: Water the plant thoroughly and let it drain for a few minutes before returning it to its usual spot.

Tips for Repotting Variegated Rubber Plant

• Don’t use a pot that’s too big, as it can retain too much moisture and cause root rot.
• Use gloves while handling the plant, as some people may have an allergic reaction to the sap.
• Don’t overwater your variegated rubber plant after repotting, as this can cause root rot.

FAQ

1. My variegated rubber plant has yellow leaves. What should I do?

Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, underwatering, or lack of nutrients. Check your watering schedule and adjust accordingly. Also, consider adding a balanced fertilizer to your plant’s soil.

2. How often should I water my variegated rubber plant after repotting?

Water your variegated rubber plant once a week after repotting until it adjusts to its new environment. After that, water it when the top inch of soil feels dry.

3. Can I repot my variegated rubber plant in any season?

It’s best to repot your variegated rubber plant during spring or summer when it’s actively growing.

4. Should I prune my variegated rubber plant before or after repotting?

You can prune your variegated rubber plant before or after repotting. Pruning can help reduce the plant’s size and improve its shape.