Question
i have a rubber tree that is  from my mothers funeral, i would like to get a start off of it for  my sister with out killing it but dont no how.please if you will send me some advise on how to do this this plant means every thing to me and i am so afraid i will kill it if i cut it thank you so much.  

Answer
Hi Penni,

If your rubber plant is healthy, then you should be able to take a stem cutting from it without harm.

It is best to count down three or four leaves from the top growing tip and cut just below that. Remove the lowest one or two leaves from this cutting so that there are two leaves remaining. Larger cuttings do not propagate nearly as readily.

You will note that the rubber pliant will "bleed" sticky white sap rather profusely. Put a piece of paper towel on the cut to staunch the flow. It will heal quickly. The sap tends to stain clothing so be careful.

The cutting can then be inserted in a small pot filled with a potting mix composed of damp peat moss and perlite. Then place the pot and cutting inside a clear plastic bag that you blow up and seal for about three weeks. Keep it in very bright, but indirect light. After that, the plastic cover can be removed and you can move it to even brighter light.

On the original plant, new growth will start to emerge from just below the point where you made the cut.

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]

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