Occasionally, a hobby gardener wishes that he could change the appearance of his plant or rubber tree a little, for example if it does not form a crown or is slowly wilting. A "makeover" is also quite possible.
There are several ways to rejuvenate a rubber tree
Perhaps your rubber tree has become too big or too bulky. In this case, too, you can trim it and bring it into a new shape. The rubber tree is quite tolerant of pruning and will ideally produce several new shoots.
How Does Rejuvenating a Rubber Tree Work?
One way to rejuvenate your rubber tree is through what is known as mossing. With this method you multiply your plant population at the same time. They kill two birds with one stone, so to speak.
Alternatively, you can shorten a rubber tree that has grown too tall or cut off side shoots that are too long. Cut just above a dormant eye and the gum tree will sprout again on that eye. With a lot of patience you can give it the shape you want. You can easily use the cut shoots as cuttings.
How do I treat the cuttings?
Ideally, your cuttings will have three or four leaves and a bud. After the milky plant sap has run out (you can place the cutting in a glass of water for this), put it in a pot with potting soil and moisten it well. Put transparent foil over the pot and place it in a light and warm place. An indoor greenhouse is an alternative.
How does mossing work?
Cut a suitable shoot from your rubber tree close to the trunk from below. If you keep this gap open and moist, for example with the help of moss, then young roots will form at this point. If these are numerous and strong after a while, you can separate and plant the resulting young plant.
Possible steps to rejuvenate the rubber tree:
- Shorten the rubber tree
- cut cuttings
- moss off
tips
The best time to rejuvenate your rubber tree is in spring, when the first shoots begin to grow.