What to Do About Rotting Roots in Banyan Trees
As a representative tropical plant, the banyan tree's aerial roots are favored by gardening enthusiasts. However, the issue of rotting roots often leaves growers at a loss. This article will systematically analyze the entire process of treating rotting roots and provide a scientific prevention plan to help you restore the robust root system of the banyan tree.
Three-Step Emergency Treatment for Rotting Roots
Repotting Inspection and Root Cleaning
When the leaves become wilted and yellow, stop watering for 3-5 days immediately. Tilt the pot, support the base of the trunk, and gently remove the pot, keeping the original soil ball intact. Use a soft-bristle brush to remove the attached old soil, then rinse under running water and place in a shaded area to air-dry the roots for 12 hours. At this time, the decaying roots will emit a sour smell, making them easy to identify.
Accurate Pruning and Disinfection Process
Prepare pruning shears that have been sterilized with fire, and completely cut off the black, rotting roots until healthy white tissue is exposed. After pruning, soak in a potassium permanganate solution (1:2000 concentration) for 15 minutes, then apply charcoal powder or sulfur powder to the wounds to prevent secondary infections.
Scientific Repotting and Care Tips
Choose a breathable ceramic pot and place a 3cm layer of ceramic stones at the bottom for drainage. Use a mixture of akadama soil, decomposed leaf soil, and river sand (proportion 2:1:1) as the new substrate. After potting, place in a diffused light environment, and do not water for the first 3 days, maintaining humidity through foliar misting. Gradually resume regular care after new buds have emerged.
Long-Term Prevention and Management Mechanism
Smart Watering Strategy
Adopt the "Three-Step Watering Method": first, check the topsoil (dry to 2cm depth); second, estimate the weight (the pot feels lighter); third, observe the leaves (slightly wilted). In summer, use the "soaking method," placing the pot in a tray of water for 15 minutes to ensure even absorption of water. In winter, strictly follow the "better dry than wet" principle, keeping the soil slightly moist.
Accurate Fertilization Strategy
In the growing season, implement the "frequent application of dilute fertilizer" method, applying diluted leaf plant nutrient solution (1:200) monthly. Add phosphorus and potassium fertilizers during critical periods: spray potassium dihydrogen phosphate (1:1000) before spring sprouting and bury bone meal (5g/pot) when it cools down in autumn. Note that after fertilizing, you need to water the "return water" the next day to dilute the fertilizer effect.
Through systematic emergency treatment and scientific daily care, not only can you effectively treat the rotting roots of banyan trees, but you can also fundamentally improve the plant's resistance. It is recommended to check the root health every six months and adjust the care plan according to seasonal changes to keep the banyan tree's aerial root system always vigorous.