Rubber Tree Losing Leaves: Correcting Water and Light

Why Your Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica) Is Dropping Leaves

Weekly "soak" watering on a fixed schedule is a common mistake. Rubber trees need water only when the top quarter of soil feels dry—frequency varies with light, temperature, and pot size.

Essential Corrections

1. Light: Place near an uncovered window for bright, indirect light + a few hours of direct sun.
2. Water: Check soil moisture by finger. Water thoroughly when top 25% is dry. Never let sit in drainage water.
3. Patience: Recovery is slow. Look for new growth at the top.

If the plant is very bare, it may not fully recover, but proper care gives it the best chance. Email photos to wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com for assessment.