Question
I am new to houseplants.  I may have bitten off more than I can chew!  My rubber houseplant has always done pretty well, at least for the year I have had yet.  Its about 2 - 2.5 ft. tall.  The leaves are dark and firm, and red bordered.  Every since I bought the plant, a few roots were popped out of the soil (always wondered if I should pot more soil on top.)  The soil has white beads, green beads, and yellowish green substance in it.  Also, small black bugs that borrow into the soil when I notice them!  I water the plant when its dry, like twice a month to three times.  I give it about a 1/2 gallon of tap water thats been setting out at least overnight, unlidded (I heard this helps the chlorine dry out.)  

I am lost about soil, fungus, mold and pesticides.  The only fertilizer I've used was the sticks, and I used five.  The plant is in a 4 gallon ceramic antique bucket.  

Also I have another plant, but I dont know what kind it is, therefore, I don't know if I am caring for it properly.  I can send a picture, if you would be willing to identify it for me.  

Please Help!
Thank you,
Christine

Answer
Christine,

Does your 4 gallon ceramic antique bucket have a drain hole in the bottom of it? If not the soil at the bottom of the bottom of the bucket never dries out no matter how long you allow between waterings. That causes the roots to rot, attracts the bugs and causes the fungus and mold to grow.

I suggest that you move it to a different pot about the same size but with a drainage hole in the bottom and continue growing it about the same as you have but empty the drain tray after every time that you water it so it is not sitting in a tray full of water. The mold, fungus and bugs will dissappear and you will have a healthy plant. As long as the leaf edges are red the plant is basically healthy.

Yes, send me a picture of the other plant and I will be happy to identify it for you. Good luck.

Darlene