Plant watering guide › Houseplants
How often to water a rubber plant
Ficus elastica
Spring–autumn 10 days
Winter 15 days
In a bright room, water your rubber plant about every 10 days from spring to autumn and every 15 days in winter. Check that the top of the soil is dry first.
By season and light
| Season | Bright spot | Lower light |
|---|---|---|
| Spring to autumn (Apr–Oct) | every 10 days | every 13 days |
| November and March | every 13 days | every 16 days |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | every 15 days | every 20 days |
These are the starting intervals Trellis uses when you add a rubber plant. Growth slows in winter, so the interval is stretched 1.5× in Dec–Feb and 1.25× in November and March, and 1.3× in lower light (seasons are flipped in the Southern Hemisphere). Pot size and room temperature change things, so adjust to how fast the soil dries.
Where to put it
Bright room (behind a sheer curtain)
Bright indoor light; tolerates some shade
Seasonal notes
Winter
- Water less and keep it warm in winter
Tips for your rubber plant
- Let the soil dry well before watering a rubber plant
- Lower leaves dropping can mean overwatering
- A red sheath at the tip means a new leaf is coming
- Wiping the leaves brings back the shine
Trellis
Add your rubber plant and Trellis reminds you on watering day
- Starts at every 10 days. You can change it any time
- Invite family and see who watered what (free)
- Keep growth photos and share them as cards
Free to start. Pro is a one-time purchase, not a subscription.
