Is root rot caused only by overwatering?

While overwatering is the most common cause of root rot, it isn't the only one. The right circumstances create the perfect environment for destruction. I learned this lesson when my well-watered fern decided to rot anyway. Fungal pathogens recognize a weakness when they spot one, and these conditions can occur in wet environments, where poor drainage can strangle a plant's roots, even with well-timed watering.

Fungi take hold under the radar; spores of Pythium lurk in soil for years before reanimating when things get wet. I lost several orchids due to an infected potting mix. Always use sterile soil when caring for delicate plants, and quarantine them for at least three weeks.

Drainage can produce silent suffocation. Roots need their oxygen fix as much as they need their fix of water! Compacted soil creates anaerobic zones. I saved my lemon tree from rot by adding 40% perlite to the compost. Terracotta pots draw moisture away more quickly. Lift pots on their feet so that air can get underneath.

Thoroughly safeguard against contamination by using sterilising tools with alcohol 70% between plant use, washing hands after coming into contact with infected plants; collection of fungus gnats requires the use of yellow sticky traps. By incorporating these simple habits, I was able to avoid a major issue in my greenhouse last spring.

All risk factors should be handled as a single entity. Well-drained soil should be paired with the appropriate amount of water. Apply cinnamon as an antifungal every month. Check the roots of the plants every week. This will help your plants fight root rot effectively and encourage healthy roots, which in turn help them grow vigorously.

Read the full article: How to Treat Root Rot: Save Your Plants Now