Another serious problem might be root rot, which makes plants appear weak and unhealthy. This happens when the plant roots have started to rot because they have been kept in too much moisture. If your plant is droopy, its leaves turn yellow, or does not seem to grow enough, then root rot might be the cause. The good news is that if treated properly, you can treat it and even prevent it from happening in the future. So let's talk about what root rot is, how to spot it, and the simple steps to help your plants recover.
Root rot is just what it sounds like when a plant's roots start to rot. This disease is usually caused by a fungal or bacterial infection and can spread quickly, leaving your plant weak and lifeless. The most common cause? Overwatering. Surprisingly, overwatering is one of the most frequent mistakes people make with houseplants, often without even realizing it.
There are two main causes of root rot. Overwatering causes root rot. When waterlogging occurs, the roots are denied enough oxygen, and deoxygenated roots start to rot. Such plants are generally weaker and more vulnerable to diseases like root rot. So you also have to maintain humidity for your houseplants.
Many fungi are responsible for root rot, including Armillaria mellea, Clitocybe tabescens, and Fusarium. In other words, you might just get bad luck and buy diseased soil. If you give your plants regular check-ups, you should manage to prevent this disease or at least capture it in its initial stages.
Those common symptoms include leaf yellowing or wilting, wet soils that do not dry off, black and wet roots, diseases developing with quick decline, and stunted growth. Note that fungus gnats do not necessarily mean root rot, but it might mean the soil is moist. Remember that having one or two of these symptoms means nothing, but if you see several, then it is probably time to check your plant for diseases.
The most practical means of guessing whether your plant is afflicted with root rot (as we suspect you may have guessed) is by examining the roots.
To begin treatment for root rot, first gently remove your plant from its pot and examine its roots. Inspect the roots and cut away any that appear dark, mushy, or have an offensive odor. Healthy roots should look firm and white or light tan. After removing all decayed roots, pour lukewarm water over the remaining healthy roots and, if desired, immerse them in a weak solution of hydrogen peroxide to kill any residual pathogens.
Rinse the pot with a bleach solution to sanitize it, then transplant the plant into new, well-draining potting soil. Ensure the pot has some holes to allow water to leak out and is not too damp; rather, the bottom inch of the soil should dry between waterings.
Keep in mind that prevention of root rot begins by avoiding overwatering, only water when the top inch of soil feels dry. And always use pots with drainage holes to let excess water escape. It's also essential to use a well-draining soil mix, adding perlite or sand to improve drainage. Avoid big pots which may keep excess moisture near the roots. Lastly, move your plant to a well-ventilated area with good air circulation so that the soil dries completely between waterings.
Controlling these aspects will considerably lessen the chances of root rot and maintain your plant healthy. Plants prone to root rot include tropical plants (like peace lilies and Philodendrons), succulents, Ferns, orchids, and water-loving plants due to overwatering or poor drainage. These plants need well-draining soil and careful watering to prevent root decay.
We are now licensed for a full-scale nursery with an extensive inventory of landscaping trees, fruit trees, palm trees, and the largest houseplant collection. If you want to enhance your curb appeal or turn your porch into a class act, Eureka Farms can guide you on how to do it all, from topiary trees and hedges to everything in between. You can rest assured that we will handle the shipment with the utmost care across the country so that when your plants reach you, they will be as fresh as new. These indoor plants require less upkeep, improve home air cleanliness, brighten moods, and provide essential touches of the natural world to the work-from-home office. Happy Planting!
