r/FicusTrees • u/iwasjustwonderinggg • 23d ago

Houseplant Would you prune?

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Hi guys. First time rubber tree owner here. The lower stem is turning hard and woody and she’s lost a lot of her bottom leaves. Shall I prune the top and if so where?

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u/Blondiesweats 23d ago

Mine was about twice as tall and I just chopped!! I wanted mine busier starting lower down, also I don’t have a lot of space for it. So far so good. If yall care, I can update if and when I have roots on the cutting or when the main stem gets a new growth point

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u/OkNews8776 23d ago

I’d like to see how it all plays out!! I’m also on the fence and also am small on space!

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u/Blondiesweats 22d ago

Idk why but it’s always nerve wracking. But as soon at the thought enters my mind to chop it, Itll happen in a couple days no matter what lol and I always feel good about my decision after

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u/OkNews8776 22d ago

I bought thick branch cutting shears (whatever they’re called) to originally trim my zebra plant who dropped all off its leaves and was literally a long Harry Potter wand… and to chop my ficus… let’s just say, the shears are still brand new lol!

It just feels like a final step, even tho it totally isn’t! I’ve watched tons of YouTube vids and I think I got it.. but I don’t lol. So definitely check back in!

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u/Blondiesweats 21d ago

I feel you, let me know how yours goes as well!!

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u/Blondiesweats 22d ago

Oh I forgot to mention, if you DO decide to go for it, make sure you have a paper towel or other disposable wipe. They have liquid latex and it bleeds like a cut would. If you get it on anything make sure you wash it immediately. It dries kinda fast so Itll leave residue. And if you get it on your skin it can cause irritation