Rubber Tree Damaged by Freezing Temperatures

A rubber tree left outside during snowfall now has only leaves at the soil level. The owner asks about cutting the stem, trimming roots during repotting, and identifying tiny silver bugs on the soil.

Cold Damage Assessment

Rubber trees are tropical and cannot tolerate temperatures below 50°F. If the stem is soft and mushy after freezing, there's a 95% chance the plant is dead. The bugs are likely attracted to rotting roots.

Emergency Treatment

Cut off the damaged stem. Water the soil with rubbing alcohol (under $1 at Walmart) to kill soil pests. Place in a warm, sunny location. There's a 5% chance of new growth emerging from the base.

Consider replacing the plant—clearance rubber trees are often available at Lowe's or Home Depot this time of year.