Characteristics of the rotten roots of Nepenthes japonica
As a star species among carnivorous plants, Nepenthes plants attract many plant lovers with its unique insect trap. However, during the maintenance process, root health is often the key to plant survival. When Nepenthes plant was found to have slowed growth and wilted leaves, it was very likely that it had encountered a crisis of root rot. This article will analyze in detail the characteristics of rotten roots, emergency treatment and preventive measures to help you become an expert in the maintenance of pitcher plants. Analysis of typical symptoms of Nepenthes rot roots abnormal growth status shows that healthy Nepenthes can grow 1-2 new leaves every week. When the plant has no new leaves germinated for two consecutive weeks and the original insect trap has withered and withered, it is necessary to be vigilant about root problems. Observe that the basal leaves will show progressive yellowing, and yellow leaves that are different from normal metabolism usually start to fall off from the top. Key points for identification of root system color: The new roots of Nepenthes chinensis are milky white, and the mature roots are light brown. If the main root is found to turn dark brown and break immediately after pulling, accompanied by a rancid smell, it can be diagnosed as a rotten root. Special attention should be paid to distinguish it from healthy black fibrous roots. Use a cotton swab to gently wipe the surface of the root system. The rotten root system will shed off mucil-like substances. Emergency treatment plan for rotten roots. Treatment method for mild rotten roots. When only 1/3 of the root system is damaged, immediately stop watering and use bamboo sticks to make vent holes in the pot soil. Mix perlite and peat soil in a ratio of 1:3 to replace the top 5 cm soil. Combined with the use of 0.1% hydrogen peroxide solution to irrigate roots, it can not only sterilize bacteria but also increase the oxygen content of the soil. If more than 2/3 of the root system is black and rotted in severe root cutting, stem sections with air roots need to be selected for cuttage. Use a sterile blade to cut 10cm of healthy branches obliquely at 45°, soak them in indole butyric acid solution, and place them in a water moss matrix. Maintaining a 90% humidity environment and combining 2 hours of fill light irradiation every day, new roots can germinate in about 20 days. The three principles of systematic preventive maintenance guidelines for scientific water supply adopt the triple judgment method of "looking, weighing, and measuring": observe that the soil on the surface layer is dry and white; the weight of the portable flowerpot is reduced by 1/3; and there is no trace of moisture when inserted into bamboo sticks. It is recommended to use rainwater or purified water, and the water temperature must be consistent with room temperature to avoid cold water irritating root systems. The key points of environmental regulation maintain the temperature difference between day and night between 5-8℃, the humidity during the day is 60%-70%, and the temperature is increased to 80% at night. Monitor the matrix salt with an EC value detector every month. When the value exceeds 0.3ms/cm, the soil should be replaced immediately. It is recommended to use a breathable plastic orchid pot and replace the mixed substrate every spring (water moss: bark: red jade soil =5:3:2).
Through regular observation and scientific maintenance, the problem of rotten roots of Nepenthes chinensis can be completely prevented. It is recommended to conduct root health inspections every quarter and use transparent seedling pots for easier observation. Keep in mind the watering principle of "better dry than wet", combined with moderate light and ventilation, your pitcher plant will surely maintain its strong vitality and continue to bloom with its unique insect-catching charm.