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Save your over grown cheese or rubber plant!
Propagation by stem layer cuttings
If you have a cheese plant or rubber plant that is about to touch the ceiling and need to take drastic action propagating a new plant could be the answer.
The first stage is to make an upward cut in the stem near to the top of a shoot or leading stem. Cut about 2/3 of the way through as shown in the photograph. With rubber plant you will find that a milky white sap floods out of the cut. This sap can cause an irritant to some people so it is important to wash your hands afterwards.
After cutting the stem pack it with damp moss. Arrange the moss so that some of the moss is in the cut. The purpose is to get the cut moist whilst the stem produces some roots. Next wrap the area with a clear plastic and bind to a cane to add additional support. The plastic will seal the moisture into the rooting area. After about 8 weeks you should notice some new roots growing in the moss at this point you can remove the plastic and cut the stem to remove the rooted section and pot with normal house plant compost. The new plant might need to be stalked whilst it develops new roots into the fresh compost.
Overgrown cheese or rubber plants can be maintained or saved by following these steps:
- Prune: Overgrown plants tend to have long, leggy stems with sparse foliage. Prune the stems back by about one-third to one-half of their length to encourage new growth and fuller foliage.
- Repot: If the plant has outgrown its pot, it may be time to repot it. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current pot and use well-draining soil.
- Watering: Overgrown plants may need more water than usual because they have a larger root system. Water the plant thoroughly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilize: Overgrown plants may benefit from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package.
- Light: Make sure the plant is getting enough light. Cheese and rubber plants prefer bright, indirect light, so place them near a window with filtered sunlight.
- Humidity: These plants also prefer high humidity, so mist them regularly or place a tray of water near the plant to increase the humidity around it.
By following these steps, you can maintain or save an overgrown cheese or rubber plant and keep it healthy and thriving.
