Question
Hello. About 2 months ago I purchased a beautiful rubber tree plant & followed all watering directions, which stated that it should be watered only once per week & then "soaked", but nothing in between. I have been very strict about this watering schedule as I usually kill ALL house plants somehow. Well, now my plant is losing leaves daily & they are turning a bit spotty & yellowish/ orange looking. Have I overwatered & can it be safed or does it go to my houseplant graveyard..? Help.. it used to be so pretty!

Answer
Hi Lorrie,

Unfortunately, the directions you have are faulty. Your rubber plant should be watered thoroughly only when the top quarter of the soil feels dry to the touch. How long that takes depends on many factors including, light, temperature, humidity, pot size, and so on.

You didn't mention light and perhaps the directions didn't either. Your rubber tree needs to be close to an uncovered window so that it gets at least bright indirect light all day long and even a few hours of direct sun.

I don't know how far gone your plant is so I don't know if it is ready for the trash. But follow my advice on light and water, be patient, and look for signs of slow recovery.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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