Q.My Rubber Plant Stands Straight Up How Do I Get It to Have Branches
My rubber plant stands straight up. How do I get it to have branches with out hurting it?
All good advice. I would add that you should be aware that the plant will drip its white sap when you cut, so make sure surfaces underneath the branches are protected. An old plantscaper's trick is to take a pinch of soil off the surface of the pot, and stick it to the cut branch. Soaks up the sap; and in case anyone is worried about infection, I've done this many times and never had a problem.
Your plant will probably not branch until the growing tip is removed. I cut the plant to give a lower center of gravity, stick the cutting into moist potting soil. (The cutting should not be new growth nor woody, but a more mature green wood.) In 4-6 weeks, you should see new growth emerging at leaf nodes. I also fertilize according to package directions when I prune to encourage healthy new growth. This article contains information that should help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/rubber-tree/prune-rubber-tree.htm
