Foul Odor from Rubber Plant: Causes and Cures

A sudden sewer-like smell from a rubber plant usually means:

1. Overwatering causing root rot (anaerobic bacteria produce the odor).
2. Foreign substance (coffee, soda, etc.) poured into the soil.

Steps to Fix

• Ensure the pot has drainage holes; if not, repot into one that does.
• Let the top third of soil dry out before watering.
• If something was added, flush the soil with copious plain water.
• Add a few tablespoons of garden lime to the soil surface to neutralize odor.

Leaves may look fine while roots rot—act quickly.