Skip to content
INDOORPLANTCARE
Repotting · Rubber Plant

How to Repot a Rubber Plant

Every 2–3 years. Best time: Late spring through early summer. New pot size: 2 inches larger.

Frequency
Every 2–3 years
Best season
Late spring through early summer
Pot size
2 inches larger
Soil mix
Standard houseplant potting mix amended with 20% perlite for drainage. Rubber plants are not as fussy about soil structure as aroids.

Signs your Rubber Plant needs repotting

Roots growing out of drainage holes; lower leaves yellowing and dropping; growth has slowed despite good light.

Step-by-step

  1. 1
    Water thoroughly 24 hours before.
  2. 2
    Tip the pot and slide the rootball out. For a tree-sized rubber plant, get help.
  3. 3
    Gently loosen the outer roots; leave the center intact.
  4. 4
    IMPORTANT: rubber plant sap is white and sticky and can stain hands and surfaces. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin (the sap is mildly irritating).
  5. 5
    Place in the new pot with 2 inches of fresh mix at the bottom; backfill.
  6. 6
    Water thoroughly. Expect 1–2 dropped leaves in the first 2 weeks as the plant adjusts.

What kills Rubber Plant after repotting

  • Repotting and immediately moving to a new spot — the cumulative shock causes dramatic leaf drop
  • Skin contact with sap — mildly irritating, can cause rash
  • Using a pot without drainage — rubber plant roots rot fast in standing water

Botanical reference: University of Florida IFAS — Ficus elastica

For full Rubber Plant care, see the Rubber Plant care guide. For the basics that apply to any plant, see how to repot a plant (general).