Notching is a technique for rubber plants (Ficus elastica) to encourage new growth or branching, especially for single-stemmed plants. It involves a small incision into the stem, stimulating dormant buds to develop into new shoots. The goal is to create a bushier, fuller plant.
Why and When to Notch Your Rubber Plant
Rubber plants naturally exhibit apical dominance, where the main stem grows preferentially, suppressing side branches. Notching overcomes this by disrupting growth-regulating hormones, specifically auxins, concentrated at the plant’s apex. Interrupting this hormonal signal redirects the plant’s energy to dormant buds lower down the stem, encouraging new shoots. This technique is useful for making a leggy rubber plant appear fuller or promoting branching in bare spots.
The optimal time for notching is during the active growing season, typically spring and summer. During these periods, the plant has abundant energy and is actively producing new foliage, making it more resilient. Notching a healthy, actively growing plant increases success, as stressed or dormant plants lack the energy for new growth.
Preparing for Notching
Before notching, gather a sharp, sterilized cutting instrument, such as a knife or razor blade. Sterilizing the blade with rubbing alcohol or a diluted bleach solution before each cut helps prevent the introduction of pathogens and minimizes infection risk.
Ensure the rubber plant is well-hydrated before notching, as a healthy plant responds better. Identify the desired branching location on the stem. New growth typically emerges from nodes, which are slightly swollen areas, often marked by a faint ring, where leaves previously grew or could form.
Step-by-Step Notching Process
Identify a dormant node on the stem where new growth is desired. This node is where a new branch will ideally form. Position your sterilized blade about a quarter to half an inch above this node.
Make a shallow, horizontal cut into the stem, penetrating approximately one-quarter to one-third of its thickness. Milky-white sap should emerge, indicating the cut is deep enough to interrupt sap flow and hormonal signals. If no sap appears, the cut may be too shallow.
For a more defined notch, make two angled cuts that meet to remove a small, V-shaped sliver. This creates a clear interruption in the stem. The aim is to disrupt hormone flow at that point. If making multiple notches, space them appropriately along the stem, considering where you want your plant to fill out. You can perform two to four notches at a time on a moderate-sized plant to avoid over-stressing it.
Post-Notching Care and Expected Outcomes
After notching, maintain the plant’s regular watering schedule, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry between waterings. Provide ample bright, indirect light, as good conditions support the plant’s energy production for new development.
New growth or branches may emerge from notched nodes within two to six weeks. Individual plant responses vary, and patience is necessary. A success rate of 30% to 50% for notches is common. If no new growth appears after a few months, attempt notching again in a different spot. Consider applying a rooting hormone to the notched area to stimulate growth.