How to Prune a Rubber Plant

Known for its carefree maintenance, the rubber plant, sometimes called a rubber tree, is a suitable plant for beginning houseplant enthusiasts and experts alike. While a rubber plant is meant to grow tall, pruning can keep the growth healthy and prevent the plant from becoming too tall. Because pruning a rubber plant isn't necessary as a part of regular maintenance, plan to prune only when the plant's height needs to be kept in check or you spot unhealthy leaves.

Hand-held pruners

Instructions

- 1
  Check the plant for damaged or dying leaves that have turned brown or yellow. These leaves often do not recover and rob the plant of nutrients and water as they die.
- 2
  Clip the stems of the damaged leaves with clean hand pruners as close to the main branch as possible. Discard any removed leaves.
- 3
  Inspect the rubber plant and decide how tall you want it to be, keeping in mind that height is a feature of this type of plant. Notice which branches are extending beyond the height you want for the plant.
- 4
  Clip the excess height from your selected branches just above a point where a leaf shoots out from the branch. If possible, cut the branch on a diagonal away from the leaf shoot. The tops of the branches can be discarded or used as cuttings to propagate new plants.

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