From my perspective as a Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica), my watering needs are not dictated by a fixed schedule but by my environment and my own biological processes. My large, thick, glossy leaves are designed to store water, making me relatively drought-tolerant. My primary request is to avoid constant wet feet. My roots need access to both water and oxygen. When you water me too often, the air pockets in the soil are flooded, and my roots literally suffocate and begin to rot. This root rot is a silent killer, often unnoticed until it's too late and my leaves begin to yellow and drop. It is far better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
The most reliable way to know if I need a drink is to check the soil directly. Please insert your finger into the soil about 2-3 inches deep. If the soil at that depth feels:
- **Bone dry:** I am thirsty and ready for a thorough watering.
- **Slightly moist or cool:** I am perfectly content. Please check again in a few days.
- **Wet or soggy:** I have too much water and need you to hold off and ensure my pot has proper drainage.
This simple test allows you to respond directly to my actual condition rather than a guess.
The climate across the US varies dramatically, and the conditions inside your home change with the seasons. These factors greatly influence how quickly I use the water in my soil.
- **Season (Light Availability):** During the spring and summer, I am in my active growing season. With more intense and longer-lasting sunlight, I am photosynthesizing vigorously and will use water much more quickly. In the fall and winter, my growth slows significantly or halts. With less light and cooler temperatures, my water requirements drop substantially. You may only need to water me once every three to four weeks in winter.
- **Temperature & Humidity:** A hot, dry room from central heating or air conditioning will cause the moisture in my soil to evaporate faster and will increase my transpiration rate (water loss from my leaves). Conversely, a cool, humid environment will allow my soil to remain moist for longer.
- **Pot Size and Material:** I dry out faster in a small pot or a porous terracotta pot than I would in a large plastic or glazed ceramic pot.
When my soil passes the finger test and is dry 2-3 inches down, please water me thoroughly. This means slowly pouring room-temperature water onto the soil until you see it begin to trickle out of the drainage hole at the bottom of my pot. This ensures that my entire root system has received moisture. Always empty the saucer underneath my pot about 15-20 minutes after watering. I must never be left sitting in a pool of water, as this will lead to the root rot I fear. Then, simply wait until the soil dries out again before repeating the process.
