Ruby Rubber Plant Seeds:
Guide to Storing, Sowing and Germination

The Ruby Rubber Plant, scientifically known as Ficus elastica ‘Ruby,’ is a stunning houseplant that features deep purple leaves with a glossy finish. With its vibrant color and easy care requirements, it has become increasingly popular among indoor plant enthusiasts. If you want to expand your collection or propagate your existing Ruby Rubber Plant, learning how to store, sow, and germinate its seeds is essential. In this guide, we will walk you through the process step by step.

Storing Ruby Rubber Plant Seeds

Before you can sow Ruby Rubber Plant seeds, it’s important to ensure that you have properly stored them. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

Harvesting the Seeds

To obtain Ruby Rubber Plant seeds, you will need a mature plant that has produced flowers. The flowers of the Ruby Rubber Plant are small and greenish-yellow in color. After pollination occurs, the flowers will develop into small fruits called figs.

Collecting the Seeds from Figs

Once the figs have ripened and turned a reddish-brown color, they are ready for seed collection. Carefully cut open the figs and remove the seeds.

Cleaning the Seeds

After removing the seeds from the figs, wash them under running water to remove any pulp or debris. It’s important to clean the seeds thoroughly to prevent any mold or fungal growth during storage.

Drying the Seeds

After cleaning, place the seeds on a paper towel or a clean cloth and allow them to air dry for several days. Ensure that they are completely dry before storing them.

Storing the Seeds

To store Ruby Rubber Plant seeds, place them in a sealable plastic bag or an airtight container. It’s important to store them in a cool and dry location away from direct sunlight. Additionally, consider adding a desiccant packet to absorb any excess moisture and maintain the seeds’ viability.

Sowing Ruby Rubber Plant Seeds

Once you are ready to sow the Ruby Rubber Plant seeds, follow these steps:

Preparing the Growing Medium

Choose a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. Fill a small pot or seed tray with the prepared growing medium, leaving about an inch of space at the top.

Sowing the Seeds

Take the Ruby Rubber Plant seeds and scatter them evenly across the surface of the growing medium. Press them gently into the soil, ensuring good seed-to-soil contact.

Covering the Seeds

Cover the seeds lightly with a thin layer of fine vermiculite or another fine-grade growing medium. This will help retain moisture and provide a suitable environment for germination.

Watering

Using a fine mist sprayer or a watering can with a narrow spout, water the growing medium thoroughly. Ensure that the water is evenly distributed but avoid creating waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to rotting.

Providing Optimal Conditions

Place the pot or seed tray in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Ideally, maintain a temperature of around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Keep the growing medium consistently moist but not overly wet.

Germination of Ruby Rubber Plant Seeds

Germinating Ruby Rubber Plant seeds requires patience and proper care. Here’s what you need to do:

Monitor Progress

Check on your seeds regularly to monitor their progress. Germination can take anywhere from two weeks to several months, so be patient.

Transplanting Seedlings

Once the seedlings have developed several true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots. Use a well-draining potting mix similar to the one used for sowing.

Providing Adequate Light

As the seedlings grow, gradually expose them to more direct sunlight. Ruby Rubber Plants thrive in bright, indirect light, so find a suitable location in your home that provides this type of lighting.

Proper Watering

Water the seedlings when the top inch of the growing medium feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. It’s better to underwater slightly than to overwater.

Fertilizing

Once the seedlings are well-established, you can start fertilizing them with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for proper dilution and application.

In conclusion, successfully storing, sowing, and germinating Ruby Rubber Plant seeds can be a rewarding experience for any plant lover. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy growing your own Ruby Rubber Plants from seeds, expanding your collection or sharing them with fellow green thumbs. Remember to be patient and provide the optimal conditions for your seeds to thrive. Happy gardening!