Can plants recover from root rot?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Plants can get better from root rot if you take action immediately and quickly formulate a plan of attack. If you act quickly, you can halt the spread of the fungal infection and benefit the healthy root systems. I have saved orchids that were left for dead simply by assessing the issue and taking sterilization precautions. Success is dependent on three things: a quick response, detail, and post-treatment care commitment. Delaying is an assurance that nothing will be successful.
Immediate Response
- Remove plant from contaminated soil within 2 hours of detection
- Rinse roots under lukewarm water to assess damage
- Trim black/mushy roots with sterilized shears (dip in 70% alcohol between cuts)
Disinfection Process
- Soak healthy roots in 1:4 hydrogen peroxide solution for 10 minutes
- Air-dry roots for 30-60 minutes to prevent secondary infections
- Dust cinnamon powder on cuts as natural antifungal protection
Repotting Guidelines
- Use pots 25% smaller than original to reduce moisture retention
- Mix soil with 40% perlite/pumice for drainage
- Water sparingly, only when top 2 inches fully dry
Preventive action is always superior to remedial action. I can keep my collection rot-free through the deft use of weekly inspections for root rot and moisture meters. Overwatered plants exhibit identical symptoms as thirsty ones, so I only determine the truth upon checking the roots. Remember to utilize sterile surgical tools after each use. I lost five succulents as a result of learning the lesson the hard way.
Long-term care requires different controls for the environment. Most houseplants thrive in a humidity range of 40% to 60%. Rot thrives in stagnant air, and oscillating fans can simulate a gentle natural breeze for your plants. If possible, repot plants in the spring when they start actively growing again as the recovery rate drops to below 30% if you repot during dormancy.
Read the full article: How to Treat Root Rot: 7 Essential Steps to Save Your Plants
