Ficus Elastica Tineke

Best Soil for Ficus Elastica Tineke

Like Ficus Elastica, Ficus Elastica Tineke care needs well-draining, aerated soil. It is not picky and will tolerate almost all types of soil, just as long as there is ample drainage. A standard potting mix rich in organic matter is recommended. Standard potting soil with additions of other mediums such as pine bark, perlite, or peat moss added can provide less compaction and better aeration. It is pertinent that the soil drains properly.

Ficus Elastica Tineke Fertilizer

Ficus Elastica Tineke is not a picky plant and fertilization is not necessary to have adequate growth. However, monthly additions of mild liquid fertilizer will encourage lush foliage growth. Granular slow-release fertilizer may also be applied in spring. Do not apply fertilizer in winter when the plant is dormant. 

Ficus Elastica Tineke Watering

Ficus Elastica Tineke does not require frequent watering. In fact, overwatering is a common issue with these plants leading to root rot, so be sure to water sparingly. The thick glossy leaves of this ficus allow the plant to retain a lot of water in its foliage. In the heat of summer, Ficus Tineke will likely require water every week, or at a minimum biweekly, depending on growing conditions. In the winter during dormancy, these plants will likely only need watering once a month to every few months. 

Ficus Elastica Tineke Light Requirements

Ficus Tineke flourishes in bright indirect light. This Ficus can adapt to direct sunlight with proper acclimation, as well as indirect light. This plant, like other Ficuses, will adapt to low light conditions. However, keep in mind that in low light conditions the creamy variegation on the foliage will decrease so if you want to keep the uniqueness that is Ficus Elastica Tineke, give it bright indirect sunlight. 

Ficus Elastica Tineke Temperature & Humidity

Ficus Tineke thrives in heat. They will grow most expediently in humid and hot places. Optimal growing temperatures are 60-95 degrees Fahrenheit. When winter comes, this tropical houseplant will go into dormancy. 

Repotting Ficus Elastica Tineke

Typically, a Ficus will need to be repotted every two to three years. Repotting is best done in spring after it has become rootbound or when the potting soil needs a refreshing. Transferring into a larger container promotes growth. To repot a Ficus Tineke, simply remove the rubber plant from its pot. Gently break apart highly compacted dirt within the roots. Next, place the plant into a new larger container that is at least 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Fill the new container with rich, well-aerated potting mix. Ensure to water well and keep out of direct sunlight until well re-established. 

Ficus Elastica Tineke Maintenance & Pruning

Ficus Tineke, as a slow-growing houseplant, does not require pruning. However, you can create the shape and height you want by cutting off the primary branches just above nodes. New leaves will appear from the nodes cut.

Propagating Ficus Elastica Tineke

Ficus Elastica Tineke can easily be propagated through stem cuttings. Using sharp, clean pruners or a knife, take a leaf cutting with some stem (typically a branch about 12 inches long). Place the cutting in clean water in a bright and warm spot. The cuttings should root within six weeks. Rooting hormone is not necessary but may help. Alternatively, you may place the cut root in a medium for rooting such as potting mix. After your new Ficus is established, repot. Be mindful of the sap that oozes from an injured Ficus Tineke, as this sap can be irritating to the skin and should never be ingested. 

Ficus Elastica Tineke Toxicity

Overall, the Ficus Elastica Tineke is moderately toxic to humans from the sap and is toxic to animals.

Toxicity to Humans

The milky white secretions emitted from an injured Ficus Tineke are mildly toxic to humans. This sap may cause irritation to the skin and when ingested may result in vomiting. Do not ingest this plant. 

Toxicity to Cats & Dogs

The Ficus Elastica Tineke rubber plant is considered poisonous to cats and dogs. Ficus plants have become the number one cause of cat poisoning in some parts of the world. Ingestion of Ficus plants can cause gastrointestinal issues in animals and should be avoided. 

Ficus Elastica Tineke Problems

Ficus Elastica Tineke Leaves Turning Yellow

With Ficus Elastica Tineke care, the most common cause of leaves turning yellow and dropping is overwatering. When there is too much moisture locked in the soil, the roots will begin to rot. With root rot, the ficus plant will be unable to suck up needed nutrients from the soil and the leaves will turn pale yellow.

Ficus Elastica Tineke Leaves Turning Brown

When leaves become black or brown on the Ficus Tineke it is a sign of disease, sunburn, underwatering, or low humidity. Overfertilization may also cause mineral and salt burn resulting in brown leaves. 

To remedy this, remove brown and black leaves, water thoroughly, and move to an area with bright, indirect light. Keep in mind that too much direct light can burn leaves as well, so give it a bright indirect sunlit spot. 

Ficus Elastica Tineke Diseases

The most common disease that Ficus Tineke may suffer from is root rot due to improper drainage and overwatering. If your ficus shows signs of disease such as yellowing leaves and mushy stems, the best course of action is the repot the plant in fresh, well-aerated soil and remove all diseased parts of the plant.

Ficus Elastica Tineke Pests

Like many other indoor houseplants, Ficus Tineke may fall susceptible to scale, aphids, mites, and more. The use of insecticidal soap is generally an appropriate remedy. If signs of infestation are present, isolate your Ficus from nearby plants and treat it. Neem oil is another readily available pesticide. Keep in mind that a healthy rubber plant growing in ideal conditions is usually pest resistant. 

OTHER FICUS RESOURCES:

• Ficus Guides
• Other Ficus Plants
• Ficus Audrey Plant Guide
• Ficus Triangularis Plant Guide
• Ficus Altissima Plant Guide