Just moved into a house in Galveston, TX. It has a tall rubber tree just outside. A recent 2-day hard freeze has caused all the leaves to turn brown and fall off. How far back should I cut it to help it recover?
I would not cut it back until you know for sure that all threat of cold weather has passed. At this point, you can cut it back by about 1/3 and still be ok. Just don't take anymore than this, as this can cause permanent damage to the plant. After the cold weather has passed, then you can prune up. Here is an article for more information on their care: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/rubber-tree/how-to-care-for-a-rubber-tree-plant.htm
My rubber plant leaves are going black around the edge of the leaf. Please help.
Have these been exposed to cold temperatures? If not then I could suspect a fungal problem which can happen if they remain too wet for too long. Can you include photos? This might help me to help you better. For now here is an article on the care of the rubber plant: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/rubber-tree/how-to-care-for-a-rubber-tree-plant.htm
Can we assume the shape of the rubber tree trunk is exactly circular shape (round shape)?
No you cannot assume that. Trunk circumference can take different shapes depending on stress from leaning or wind force, genetics and other factors. Shape can vary from one point on the trunk to another.
Hi there, I recently trimmed my rubber tree, put some the cuttings into water, and they've rooted. Should I plant each cutting into a separate pot or can they go into one pot? Two are quite small. The other is fairly large. Thank you. -Kathi
For the best results, you will need to have each one in a separate container. This will keep them from overcrowding too fast.
There are only two leaves left in my rubber tree plant. Can I cut the stalk in a few pieces and put in water ?
Theoretically yes, They root rather easily. Best from a smaller cutting that is healthy as possible.
But I am wondering why you plant has died back and if the cuttings will be viable and suitable for propogation. Take the tip with two leaves rather than drier bare stems, and give it a try.
Try to learn as much as possible about plant care, soil and water management, so that your new plant does't suffer the same fate. GKH has good articles, including this one:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/rubber-tree/propagation-rubber-tree-plant.htm
Round spots on Rubber Tree leaves - what's causing this, how to treat it?
If you notice brown spots on your rubber tree, whether they’re caused by a fungal or bacterial problem, it may be difficult to manage the disease. Once you notice brown spots, a disease is already present. Remove all leaves with brown spots from plants, and also remove any dropped leaves to help break the life cycle of these diseases. If your rubber tree is in a container, repot it in sterilized potting mix and discard the contaminated soil.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/rubber-tree/leaf-curl-on-rubber-plants.htm
I've had this tree for almost 15 years and while I don't have much of a green thumb, it's a very sentimental plant and I don't want to screw it up. So, as you can see there are a few branches that are completely bare but have new growth at the top. (I hope my pictures show what i'm trying to explain) i'm not sure what to do. should i prune off the tops and propagate them? What would happen to the bare branch? Should I remove it? As I mentioned, it's a very sentimental plant and I don't want to kill it. Please let me know if you have any advice or questions because I'm sure I'm not giving y'all enough information :)
You won't be able to kill it by cutting it! This hardy plant will tolerate the pruning just fine. You can propagate the tops, just in case, but you will likely end up with more plants than you intend to have.
These articles will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/rubber-tree/prune-rubber-tree.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/rubber-tree/propagation-rubber-tree-plant.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/rubber-tree/how-to-care-for-a-rubber-tree-plant.htm