How to Deal with Waterlogging and Root Rot
In the maintenance of potted plants, waterlogging and root rot is the most common fatal problem. When poor drainage of the potting soil causes the roots to be soaked for a long time, it can lead to yellow leaves and wilting in the lighter cases, and plant death in severe cases. This article will systematically analyze the prevention and control process of waterlogging and root rot from cause tracing to emergency measures.
Deep Analysis of the Causes of Waterlogging and Root Rot
Defects in Physical Environment
Untimely removal of water accumulated in the tray can lead to long-term moisture at the bottom of the pot. It is recommended to use陶粒 (ceramsite) with strong water absorption as a base. When the distance between the pot and the saucer is less than 1cm, wine cork slices can be used as a raised support. The size of the container should maintain a 2:1 ratio with the plant's canopy, as larger containers can easily form积水 dead corners.
Problems with Cultivation Substrate
For potted plants grown in pure garden soil, it is recommended to mix in 30%珍珠岩 (perlite) + 20%松磷 (pine bark). Test the soil permeability speed with a bamboo skewer every month, with the ideal state being complete permeation within 20 seconds after watering. For heavy clay soil, add rice husk charcoal to improve drainage.
Five-Step Emergency Treatment Plan
Root Repair Technique
For plants with fleshy roots like Clivia Miniata, it is necessary to cut the rotting part diagonally with a sterilized pruning shear and apply charcoal powder to the cut. For epiphytic plants like orchids, retain a 3cm healthy root segment and soak in a 0.1% potassium permanganate solution for 15 minutes.
Smart Cutting Method
For succulent plants, select a 5cm healthy stem tip, let the cut dry, and then insert it into a vermiculite substrate. For leafy plants like pothos, cut stems with aerial roots for hydroponic regeneration. The cutting environment should maintain 75% humidity, combined with diffused light care.
Three-Level Early Warning Identification System
Soil Monitoring Indicators
Use the bamboo skewer test method: Insert a dry skewer deep into the potting soil and observe after 2 hours. If more than 1/3 of the skewer is wet, it is time to be alert. Professional growers can use a soil moisture meter, with a value consistently >60% for over 48 hours indicating a risk of root rot.
Plant Morphology Diagnosis
Initial symptoms include the cessation of new leaf growth, intermediate stages show leaf edge browning with stem shrinkage, and in the late stage, the whole plant collapses. Special morphological changes include: clear watermark spots on the leaves of Phalaenopsis orchids, and basal blackening and softening in succulent plants.
Prevention is better than cure. It is recommended to use siphon pots or smart water control systems. Maintain good ventilation in the environment during daily care, and lay volcanic stones as a drainage layer during the rainy season. Remember: the plant's distress signals are often hidden on the back of leaves and soil cracks, and regular observation is key to preventing root rot.