As a rubber tree (*Ficus elastica*), my primary directive is to grow upwards towards the light, a process known as apical dominance. This is governed by auxins, hormones produced in my topmost bud that suppress the growth of lateral buds further down my stem. To encourage me to become bushier, you must strategically interrupt this single-minded upward quest and convince my lower buds to participate.
The most effective way to encourage bushier growth is through pruning. When you remove my apical (top) bud, you physically eliminate the primary source of those suppressing auxins. This hormonal imbalance is a signal to my system. The lower lateral buds, no longer inhibited, are free to break their dormancy and develop into new branches. For the best results, make a clean, angled cut just above a node (the bump on the stem where a leaf attaches). I will often respond by producing not one, but two or more new branches from that point, creating a much fuller appearance.
My growth pattern is a direct response to light. If I am placed in a location with insufficient light, I will become leggy as I desperately stretch my stems to find a stronger light source. This results in long internodes (the spaces between leaves) and a sparse, unattractive form. To grow bushy and strong, I require bright, indirect light. This abundant energy allows me to support more leaves and stronger branches without becoming etiolated. Rotating my pot a quarter turn every time you water ensures all my sides receive equal light, preventing me from growing lopsided and encouraging even, dense growth all around.
My growth is not just hormonal; it is also physical. To support a heavier, bushier frame of multiple branches and large leaves, I need a robust root system and access to essential nutrients. Ensure my soil is well-draining to prevent root rot, which would severely limit my ability to uptake water and minerals. During my active growing season (spring and summer), a monthly feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer provides the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium I need to produce healthy new foliage and strengthen my stems to hold it all up.
For a more targeted approach, you can use a method called notching. This involves making a small, shallow cut into my stem just *above* a node you wish to stimulate. By carefully cutting through the bark and slightly into the cambium layer, you partially interrupt the flow of auxins downwards past that node. This local reduction in the suppressing hormone can be enough to encourage that specific bud to grow into a new branch, allowing you to precisely fill in bare spots on my stem.
