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Ficus elasticaCommon name; Rubber plant Ficus is an evergreen houseplant that can grow to 5-6 metres high meaning that it can outgrow its location in most domestic situations. The shiny dark green leaves with a ‘rubbery’ texture can grow to about 300mm (12") long. Some varieties have variegated leaves. They need to be grown in a well lit position, but not direct sunlight. The leaves tend to collect household dust so they should be washed two or three times a year. Plants should be watered regularly during the summer, easing off in the winter months. Leaves are often shed during winter, sometimes due to natural ageing, but quite often it can be attributed to over watering, changes in temperature, a draughty position or overfeeding (particularly in winter). There may be considerable leaf-drop from larger plants if moved to much lighter or much darker situations. Moving the plant to a different room can even make a difference. Plants will usually adapt to the new surroundings and produce new leaf growth within a few weeks. Plants need an even temperature, in winter do not allow the temperature to fall below 13°C (55°F) and avoid sharp fluctuations in temperature. Week 16; Pot on young plants each year until they are in their final 300mm (12") pots, then re-pot them every two years from then on. Week 18; Commence feeding with a half strength liquid fertiliser every two weeks from now until October. Week 22; Now is a convenient time to propagate plants that perhaps have lost their lower leaves or have grown too tall, do this by air-layering them.
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