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Rubber Plant #780799

Asked January 25, 2022, 5:22 PM EST

Hello. I have a rubber plant that is exhibiting signs of disease. I first noticed the problem this past summer. The leaves of the plant will start to get a small split (photo 1) that will progress to affect the whole leaf (photo 2 & 3). Many new leaves, but not all, seem thinner and some are misshapen. The plant is outside in the summer/early fall and inside during the remainder of the year. I have owned the plant for approximately 12 years and it was not a young plant when I got it. I fear that my plant might be afflicted with foliar nematodes. This is the only plant that I own and I am willing to go to great lengths to save it. There is a product called ZeroTol 2.0 that I am considering trying. The basic chemistry is Hydrogen Peroxide and Peracetic acid, plus surfactants, buffers, etc. My questions are: 1. What do you think is affecting my plant? 2. Is ZeroTol safe to use on a rubber plant? 3. Do you have any other suggestions for things I can do to save the plant> Thank you so much for your time!

Saginaw County Michigan

Expert Response

Good Evening,

In the home, plant diseases are very rarely a problem. Too much or too little water plus insects and mites are the main problems. A daily humidity level of 50% or higher is required for rubber plants to thrive. The leaves become brittle if there is not enough moisture in the air. Splits can result from even the slightest movement.  I suggest you send in a sample and get a firm diagnosis.  I cannot find any information specifically on whether zeroTol can be used on rubber trees. Read entire label before using this product. Use only according to label directions. Do not use ZeroTol 2.0 above labeled rates.

References

Resources - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

Take steps to avoid foliar nematodes - MSU Extension

Common Houseplant Insects & Related Pests | Home & Garden Information Center (clemson.edu)

PP30800.pdf (ufl.edu)

Ficus Diseases (psu.edu)

biosafe.zerotol2.0052016CASupp.label.pdf (westernpest.com)

I hope this helps.  Thanks for using our service.

V/r, Replied January 26, 2022, 12:32 AM EST
Hello and thank you for the quick response. If it were exclusively an indoor plant, I would be less concerned about disease, but I do keep my rubber plant outside for 4-5 months of the year. I have had the plant for over 10 years and am familiar with its response to indoor conditions and there is definitely something wrong. Were you able to view the photos? I was hoping these might provide a clue. I would like to send a sample for diagnosis. Could you tell me how to go about doing that? 
Thanks again for your assistance!
 

On Wed, Jan 26, 2022 at 12:32 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied January 27, 2022, 5:06 PM EST

Good Morning,

Yes, I saw the photos, but I can't identify anything specific.  This link will help you provide your sample.  Submit Samples - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)  

Good Luck.

V/r, Replied January 28, 2022, 3:18 AM EST

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