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Leaf Spots on rubber plant

rubber plant with leaf spots

What's Happening

Small, water-soaked lesions that expand into angular brown spots with yellow halos indicate bacterial leaf spot, typically caused by Pseudomonas species. Unlike fungal spots (which have concentric rings), bacterial lesions follow leaf veins creating angular patterns. Infection enters through wounds or natural openings, spreading rapidly in high humidity with poor air circulation. Overhead watering and splashing soil are primary transmission vectors.

How to Fix It

  1. 1

    Remove and destroy severely affected leaves—do not compost

  2. 2

    Avoid overhead watering; water at soil level only

  3. 3

    Increase spacing between plants for air circulation

  4. 4

    Apply copper-based bactericide weekly for 3-4 weeks

  5. 5

    Sterilize pruning tools with 70% alcohol between cuts to prevent spread

How to Prevent It

Never mist leaves or allow water to sit on foliage. Maintain good air circulation. Quarantine new plants for 14 days. Water in morning so any splashed leaves dry quickly.

Related Problems

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes leaf spots on my plant?
Small, water-soaked lesions that expand into angular brown spots with yellow halos indicate bacterial leaf spot, typically caused by Pseudomonas species. Unlike fungal spots (which have concentric rin...
How do I fix leaf spots?
Remove and destroy severely affected leaves—do not compost. Avoid overhead watering; water at soil level only.
How do I prevent leaf spots from happening again?
Never mist leaves or allow water to sit on foliage. Maintain good air circulation. Quarantine new plants for 14 days. Water in morning so any splashed leaves dry quickly.