Question
Hello there. Thanks in advance for answering my question. I have a rubber tree plant I rescued from a grocery store in Brooklyn about three years ago. It has grown from a tiny pot bound plant to almost five feet tall. The stems have mostly turned woody. IT seems to be doing okay, but is a little spindly. I have to train each individual stalk with bamboo stakes before they stay upright. Lately, I noticed a few of the leaves have gotten large white and in some places yellowish brownish white spots and holes in them. I checked the undersides for stickiness or webs but didn't find any. I sprayed the undersides with castille soap/water spray bottle. Other than that it seems to be doing better than well. There are new shoots on every branch and leaves keep opening up. I worry though, because I have other plants mites like nearby (such as my beloved jasmine) and like to take precautions. Are there any further precautions i should take?

Answer
Hi Danielle,

The leaf spots you describe usually show up on a few older leaves and are not a cause for concern. It is more a sign of aging than anything else. The spots are not caused by spider mites or any other pests. Rubber Plants are very resistant to spider mites, which much prefer Jasmine and other plant species.

I do suggest that you try to provide more light for your somewhat spindly Rubber Plant. In more light, the stems will be thicker and better able to support themselves. Improved light will also increase the overall health of the plant, including its resistance to any diseases or pests. Increased light will also allow the plant to support more leaves so you will lose fewer older leaves. If the blemished leaves are unattractive, you can trim remove them without harm to the plant.

Let me know if you need more information on Jasmine care or on treating spider mites. I have written articles on these topics that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

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