Some big dumby with my name (T’was me) posted earlier this week with a totally not correct way to propagate ficus elastica (rubber tree, tineke) from a leaf. So anyway here is the proper way to prop it with pictures.

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  • Step one: mark where you would like to make your first cut (i use a loose zip tie). This cut will make the mother tree bush out at the highest node. Plan ahead, and make your cut.

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  • Step two: process the props by cutting up from the bottom every 2 leaf nodes. leave 4-6 leaves/nodes at the very end of the piece (this last chunk is your reward, you are doing great).

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  • Step three: Remove the lower leaf entirely from each piece, and the lowest 2-3 leaves on the largest piece.

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Step four: dip the bottom of your cuttings into rooting hormone. Be generous.

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  • Step five: firmly grasp your new cutting and gently cram them into the pot you forgot to fill up with a fast draining potting soil before you started. Be sure to completely cover the lower node and keep the dirt about as high as the remaining leaf-node.

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  • Step six: Put the smaller props in any excessively humid environment where they can still get some indirect light. I use my favorite clear tote under a canopy, lightly sealed. Keep the soil moist.

Roots should form in 6-12 weeks. Some may take a long time, some may die. I’d bet youre glad you made 5 now, huh?

If you know what to do with all these leaves please let me know;

  • motorwerks@sopuli.xyz
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    1 year ago

    1 of those things you wonder how someone figured out before any other human. An evolution of knowledge, I know, but still impressive. Thanks for the content!

  • 0x1C3B00DA@kbin.social
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    1 year ago

    And every prop will be able to put out new growth? I’ve read that you can profligate ficuses from different parts but not every technique will result in a plant that can grow new leaves.

    • YeetPics@mander.xyzOP
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      1 year ago

      Given that these cuttings have a piece of the stalk with a node, yes they should grow into complete plants. Doing a side by side experiment now with this method vs using just leaf cuttings, I have mixed information on leaf props being viable so we will see what happens. I will update eventually.

      Update;

      leaf props not viable from my tests.

      Stem cutting with multiple nodes work well if you can keep the temp/humidity up without causing fungal issues.

      Branches from mother plant predictably emerge from the top nodes