Question
I have a 4 year old rubber plant that has 7 stalks emerging from the
center of a pot.  I have repotted the plant once since owning it and
it seems to be very healthy.  I would like to prune the plant a bit,
but was wondering if I could divide the stems when I repot next
spring.  It looks to me as though they are seperate, but this is my
first plant.  I want to make the plant stronger and more compact,
just not sure where to start.  Thank you.  E

Answer
Hi Erin,

Pruning your rubber plant will help make it more compact. Providing more light will make the stems and leaves thicker and stronger.

Dividing the plant into its separate stems will not accomplish any of those things. In fact, dividing the rootball will provide some trauma and unless you are very careful and knowledgeable, you could easily end up losing all of the divisions. Division provides no tangible benefit, but carries lots of risk. My advice is not to do it.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.
   
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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

Visit my web site at www.HorticulturalHelp.com

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