root rot treatment
Root rot is a plant disease that affects the roots, causing them to decay. It typically occurs when plants remain in overly moist soil for extended periods. If you want to learn the proper methods to treat root rot, continue reading this guide for detailed steps and prevention tips.
Steps to Treat Root Rot in Soil
1. Remove the Plant from the Soil
Start by gently removing the plant from its pot and shaking off as much soil as possible from the roots. Examine the roots and leaves to identify the decayed sections. Healthy roots are firm and green or white, while rotten roots appear brown, mushy, or stringy.
2. Wash the Roots and Plant
After removing the affected plant from the pot, rinse the roots under running water. Wash both the roots and plant gently to avoid causing further damage.
3. Trim Off Rotten Roots
Carefully cut away all rotten roots and damaged leaves using a sharp, alcohol-sterilized pair of scissors. It is recommended to prune one-half to one-third of the plant’s foliage. Be sure not to remove any healthy growth.
4. Repot the Plant
Once all dead roots and leaves are removed, repot the plant in fresh, clean, well-draining soil. Choose a pot with proper drainage holes. You may add perlite, sand, or pumice to improve soil drainage.
It is also recommended to dip the remaining healthy roots in a fungicide solution before replanting to prevent reinfection.
Note:
If all the plant’s roots are soft and mushy, it may be too late to save it.
Tips to Prevent Root Rot
Avoid Overwatering
Controlling the growing environment is essential for preventing rot. Excessive moisture encourages fungal diseases. Keep the soil loose and well-aerated to allow oxygen to reach the roots. The wetter and more compact the soil, the higher the risk of root rot.
Avoid Keeping Plants in Decorative Cachepots
Many people use decorative pots without drainage holes indoors. Although they look attractive, they trap water and prevent proper drainage, significantly increasing the risk of disease.
Use Natural Extracts
Several homemade natural extracts can help protect roots from rot:
Chamomile Extract
Chamomile helps resist fungal growth. To prepare it, soak a handful of dried chamomile flowers in 1–2 liters of water for one day. Dilute the extract with water at a 1:5 ratio before use.
Garlic Extract
Chop about 300 g of garlic cloves and soak them in 5 liters of warm water for one day. Dilute at a 1:3 ratio, then dip the plant’s root ball in the extract before planting to protect against pathogens.
