Identifying Rubber Plant Problems

Rubber plant leaf problems are common for every Ficus Elastica owner. Although the rubber tree is a low-maintenance plant. It is prone to certain challenging health defects. These health issues might be stressful to a beginner gardener. 

Carrying out plant troubleshooting is often recommended for the Ficus Elastica.

Because identifying these health issues on time, could be key to solving them. Here are some possible rubber plant diseases and solutions to fixing them.  

Leaves curling on rubber plant

 When your rubber tree leaf starts curling. It is oftentimes a sign of insect or pest infestation. It is common for pests and other insects to attack new leaves of the Ficus tree. This can cause curling or wilt of the new leaf. 

Aphids, mealybugs, and scales are a few of these insects causing this. Using insecticidal soap or rubbing alcohol would help kill off these insects. 

Another reason for this problem can be excess moisture in the soil. This is common for people using a fixed watering plan for the rubber plant. They do not like excess moisture so do avoid overwatering. 

Before watering, endeavor to feel the soil with your fingers. Ensure they are a little dry before you proceed to watering. In areas of high humidity, the ficus tree would require less water. This is because they get their moisture from the humid environment.

White Spots on Rubber Plant 

White spots are often caused by insects like mealybugs or spider mites. These harmful insects feed on the plant leaves causing white spots on them. Other visible signs are clear, tiny openings on the plant leaf.

To solve this problem you would need pesticides. By sprinkling pesticides on the leaves, you kill these harmful pests. However, ensure you follow the instructions with caution. 

An alternative to pesticides would be neem oil. It is less harsh on the potted plant and would be more effective. 

Rubber Plant Has Its Leaves Drooping 

Drooping leaves or wilting leaves are caused by many factors. Overwatering is one factor. Another would be insufficient lighting conditions. 

The Ficus elastica requires little watering. So try as much as possible to limit watering. Water when the soil is almost dry. This should be done once or twice a week. Avoid using tap or chlorinated water. Rainwater or dechlorinated water is a better choice. 

Lighting conditions are crucial to the plant’s survival. Consider relocating it if you notice they aren’t getting enough light.  

Yellow leaves 

If you notice the ficus leaves turning yellow. It is most times caused by excess water in the soil. Consider reducing the frequency of watering. 

Fungal attacks can also be a major cause of yellow leaves. Powdery mildew is an example of such attacks. You can solve this problem with the use of neem oil. Be generous when applying the neem oil to the leaves. Also, prune the yellow leaves to avoid the easy spread of fungi. 

Another cause of yellow leaves is excess cold. This can cause a shock on the plant’s leaves, turning them yellow. Do not place them next to a door or window at night or during winter.  They prefer warm temperatures and high humidity. 

Rubber Plant Leaves Turning Brown 

Brown leaves are often attributed to the winter season. During this season, the Ficus Elastica goes dormant. If you overwater a plant during this season. Their leaves might end up turning brown. 

Overwatered plants are susceptible to root rot. This is what causes the plant leaf to turn brown. Other signs could be droopy leaves. 

Reduce watering to once a month during winter. Also, check the base of the pot, and ensure there are enough drainage holes.

You would need to prune the brown leaves. This is because they cannot be reversed. So pruning helps give the plant a fresh look.  

Frequently Asked Questions