Question
How do you propagate a rubber tree? I have a big one and I would like to take starts from it and start new one's for family members. How do I do this successfully? Do I put them in water or use a rooting hormone and start them in soil? Do I use plastic? I need help in all these area's. Thanks. D

Answer
Debbie, propagation from cuttings is an easy method to reproduce exact replicates of the parent plant.   

Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. Dip the cutting in a rooting compound. You can purchase this product at any garden center. Stick the cutting one inch into a good potting mix. Be sure to thoroughly wet the soil prior to planting.  

Finally, cover the pot with a clear piece of lightweight plastic. Place the pot in indirect sunlight on an east window seal or under fluorescent lighting. After two weeks, check to see if the plant has rooted by slightly pulling on the stem. If you feel resistance, remove the plastic covering and be sure to keep the soil moist. The plant should then be treated as any other seedling.  

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.  

Regards,  

Mike