Question
How or when do I repot my rubber plant?

Answer
Hi Andrea,

There are no simple answers to either of your questions. In fact, I have written a lengthy article on repotting that I  
will send to anyone who sends a request to my e-mail address below.

It is very common to repot prematurely because a plant looks too big for its pot or because some roots are exposed. Plants do best when they are quite potbound and they often develop root rot when their pots are too big.

The best rule of thumb as to when to repot is to wait until the plant needs water again within 3 days after a thorough watering. A plant that can go 3 days or more without more water has enough soil to keep the plant happy.

How to repot is more complex. It is more than just putting a plant into a larger pot and filling in the space with soil. Here are some important guidelines:

1. Use a pot that is only one size larger.

2. Loosen the roots surrounding the outer rootball.

3. Use a porous, peat-based potting mix.

4. Make sure the top of the rootball is at least an inch below the rim of the new pot.

5. Do not add soil to the top of the rootball.

6. Water the soil thoroughly right after repotting.

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.

If this information has been helpful, please click the Rate Volunteer bar below and enter a rating and nomination for me. I am a volunteer on this site so Ratings are the only compensation I receive for answering plant questions.

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com
  
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]