Question

Rubber Plant   Hi there,
Our 6-foot tall rubber plant has a yellow wax like coating and brown spots on the new leaves. How do we fix this?
All our thanks,
Elizabeth

Answer
Hi Elizabeth,

The blistering of the leaves is worrisome. This symptom is not cause by insects, improper watering or improper light. It is likely to be a bacterial, fungal of viral infection or possibly nematodes. There is no way to know for sure without having a lab analysis done of the plant tissue. Even if you determine what the cause is, it may or may not be treatable.

If the plant is very valuable to you, you might try taking a blistered leaf sample to the NY Botanical Garden where they may be able to test it for you. The Cornell Cooperative Extension will also do lab analyses for a fee.

Wish I had better news and an easier solution for you.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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