Ficus elastica

How Often to Water a Rubber plant

Rubber plants have thick, waxy leaves and sturdy stems. They drop their lower leaves when overwatered, which is the signal most owners misread as thirst.

Your rubber plant

Your answer

Water when the soil reaches this point

How it shifts through the year

Thirsty signs

  • Leaves droop and may curl at the edges
  • Older leaves turn brown and crisp
  • Soil is dry deep down and pulls from the pot

Overwatered signs

  • Lower leaves yellow and drop
  • Soft brown spots on leaves
  • Soil stays wet and smells stale

Watering tips for rubber plant

Common questions

Why is my rubber plant dropping leaves?

Overwatering is a leading cause, along with sudden changes in light or temperature. Check the soil and the roots before changing anything else.

How often should I water a rubber plant?

Check every week or two and water when the top inch or two is dry. The interval grows in winter.

Tools that help

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Related guides

Estimates use rules of thumb. Always confirm with your finger: push it about an inch into the soil before you water.