Can a plant recover from root rot?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Plants can absolutely recover from root rot! My monstera recovered after severe root damage. More than 90% succeed if caught in time! Take action if yellowing of leaves or a rotten smell in the potting soil occurs. Sound roots are white and firm.
Root Pruning
- Sterilize shears with 70% alcohol before each cut
- Remove all black mushy roots above damage lines
- Keep healthy white roots intact for regrowth
- Dispose of infected material immediately
Sterilization Process
- Soak remaining roots in diluted hydrogen peroxide
- Use 1 part 3% peroxide to 3 parts water
- Leave for 30 minutes to kill pathogens
- Air dry roots before repotting
Repotting makes all the difference. Choose fresh, well-draining soil. Mix in perlite for better aeration. Pick a clean pot with drainage holes. Water lightly after repotting. Put your plant in indirect light. My peace lily was back to normal in six weeks!
Keep a close watch on the plants as they start their recovery. Check the soil moisture daily. Use the finger test method. Avoid fertilization for four weeks. New growth is a good sign; wilting spells trouble. I lost a fern because I rushed this stage. Take your time.
Water plants only when the top one to two inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Enhance drainage in the plant container by adding additional rocks, gravel, sand, or other suitable materials. Quarantine any new plants before adding them to your home. Apply cinnamon powder monthly (this helps control root rot). Your plant buddies will continue to grow! Don't think of root rot as the end.
Read the full article: How to Treat Root Rot: Save Your Plants Now
