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If you need to repot a rubber tree, there are a few things to consider. We will show you what is important and what needs to be considered.
In a nutshell
- the best time is spring
- Drainage is important
- The frequency of repotting depends on the age of the plant
- Hydroponics is possible
- Stability must be given
time
The rubber tree is best repotted in early spring. It is therefore ideal to carry out the measure before the first growth of new shoots. This puts the time between February and March. In some cases, however, the change of substrate and planter can and must also take place when:
- the substrate is used up
- the root ball gets too big
- the stability is no longer given
- there is an infestation with pests
- rot or mold occur
The time of year then does not matter as a quick change is required.
Tip: As soon as the roots protrude from the bottom of the pot, wchoose a larger and taller vessel. The difference should be at least a hand's breadth or about ten centimeters. This significantly reduces the effort required for repotting.
planter
The chosen flower pot should meet the following criteria:
- about twice the size of the root ball
- safe water drainage
- stable
- stable
Tip: Provide a drainage layer at the bottom of the pot to keep the roots out of the water. Coarse gravel, ceramic shards and small stones are suitable for this.
substrate
Commercial potting soil is the easiest. However, mix this with sand or fine gravel. If you decide to use a different substrate, pay attention to the following factors:
- permeable and loose
- moderately nutritious
- not tending towards compression
hydroponics
Another option besides regular soil is to use hydroponics. However, you should only make this change to young plants. Older specimens often do not tolerate the change from substrate to expanded clay and die or are at least severely weakened and thus susceptible to diseases and pests.
frequency
How often you have to repot a rubber tree depends on various factors. These include:
- age of the plant
- size of the roots
- size of the planter
Young rubber trees grow relatively quickly. Therefore, they have to be moved to a larger planter as often as necessary. A change is recommended annually or every two years. Older specimens grow more slowly. They can therefore remain in the substrate for a significantly longer time. Three to a maximum of five years are possible.
Notice: The larger you choose the planter, the longer liquid and nutrients will last. Repotting is less necessary and the effort for other care is reduced. In addition, the stability is increased.
Action
When repotting a rubber tree, the steps involved are relatively simple. The following guide shows how to do it:
- remove earth: Thoroughly remove the used substrate. After a careful dry cleaning, you can gently rinse the root ball. This prevents the spread of pests and pathogens and improves the absorption of nutrients.
- Carry out control: Now check the root for any damage, rot and mold. Cut off affected plant parts with a clean pruning tool and air dry the cut surfaces for a few hours.
- Insert drainage: Then put the drainage at the bottom of the pot to keep the roots away from the irrigation water.
- Fill up with fresh substrate: Put so much soil in the planter that only the trunk is above the substrate. Press the soil down using light pressure. Finally, a flooding pouring is recommended. Then let the excess water drip off completely.
Tip: If you want to ensure increased stability, put stones in the planter. This weighs it down and doesn't tip over so easily. This is especially recommended for very tall rubber trees.
frequently asked Questions
Can the rubber tree be propagated in hydroponics?When the gum tree is very tall, the top can be cut off and placed hydroponically. Roots form over time. This can be recognized by the fact that the plant forms new leaves and can no longer be easily pulled out of the substrate.
Repot and multiply rubber tree?Repotting in early spring is also the ideal time for propagation by cuttings. The easiest way to do this is to cut off the top of the rubber tree and place the section in substrate or hydroponics.
Does it have to be fertilized after repotting?No, additional fertilization is not necessary immediately after repotting. The plant is supplied with nutrients by the fresh soil.