Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica) Decline After Repotting: Root Rot Emergency

Repotting into large pot with heavy soil = classic root rot. Symptoms: leaf drop, withered stems, drooping, white soil mold. Original pot/soil was correct.

Emergency Surgery

1. Unpot; remove all excess soil.
2. Trim roots: Cut all black/mushy roots + ½″ into healthy (white/firm).
3. If most roots gone: Plant unsalvageable.
4. Repot: Smallest pot fitting healthy roots + little soil. Mix: potting soil + perlite (not sand).
5. Place in sun; water when top ¼ dry.

Prevention

Never "upgrade" pot size unnecessarily. Ficus likes snug pots. Ask before repotting.

Success uncertain but only option. Act fast.