What to Do When茉莉花 (Jasmine) Roots Rot
Jasmine has lush green leaves and fragrant flowers, making it a favorite ornamental plant among gardening enthusiasts. However, during the care process, it often encounters root rot issues, with symptoms such as yellowing leaves, falling leaves, and stopped growth of new buds often indicating root damage. This article will delve into the formation mechanism of root rot in jasmine and provide a systematic treatment plan to help your potted jasmine regain vitality.
Analysis of the Three Main Causes of Jasmine Root Rot
Waterlogging Damages Roots: The Fatal Hazard of Overwatering
Jasmine roots are extremely sensitive to moisture, and long-term waterlogging can cause root suffocation. Data shows that 63% of root rot in potted jasmine is caused by improper watering. In summer, keep the soil slightly moist due to fast evaporation, and strictly control water in winter, watering only when 2/3 of the potting soil is dry. It is recommended to use a graduated watering can to accurately control the amount of water.
Soil Hardening: A Hidden Root Killer
Experiments show that the oxygen content in compacted soil is 45% lower than in loose substrates. It is recommended to replace the potting soil every 2 years for potted jasmine, with a mixture of peat soil: pine needle soil: perlite = 5:3:2. Loosen the soil with a bamboo skewer regularly, and deal with the crust on the surface immediately to maintain soil aeration.
Imbalanced Light: The Double Impact of Photosynthesis
4 hours of direct sunlight per day can increase the vitality of jasmine roots by 32%. Long-term shading not only hinders photosynthesis but also weakens the root absorption capacity. It is recommended to provide full sunlight in spring and autumn, shade appropriately during the noon of summer, and ensure at least 5 hours of direct sunlight in winter.
Four-Step Emergency Treatment to Save Rotting Jasmine Roots
Accurate Root Pruning: Surgical Treatment
After removing the plant from the pot, rinse the roots with running water and thoroughly remove the brown rotting tissue. Retain the healthy white roots, make a 45-degree diagonal cut with a scissors after disinfecting with alcohol, with the cut area 1 cm larger than the rotted part. After pruning, soak in a carbendazim solution (1:1000) for 20 minutes, then dry until the cut surface forms a film.
Scientific Soil Mixing: Rebuilding the Root Growth Environment
The new substrate should include 30% granular medium, with a recommended combination of red jade soil + vermiculite. Before repotting, drench with a potassium permanganate solution (light pink) for disinfection, maintaining the original soil mark for planting depth to avoid too deep planting, which can cause secondary root rot.
Gradual Recovery Care: Precise Environmental Control
After surgery, the jasmine needs to be placed in a well-ventilated area with scattered light for 2 weeks, maintaining a temperature of 18-25°C. Do not water for the first 3 days, and use the immersion method for watering later. Gradually increase sunlight after new buds appear, with a transition period of about 15-20 days.
Nutrition Management: Root Activation Plan
During the recovery period, apply a seaweed extract solution (2000 times) every 10 days and foliar spray with brassinolide to promote the regeneration of fine roots. Avoid using chemical fertilizers, and start applying a thin fertilizer only after 3 pairs of new leaves have unfolded.
Through scientific diagnosis and systematic treatment, 85% of jasmine with root rot can be successfully revitalized. Daily care should pay special attention to water and light balance, and it is recommended to check the root health monthly. Master the 'moist when dry' watering principle and combine it with regular potting and root pruning to effectively prevent the recurrence of root rot, allowing jasmine to bloom with a refreshing fragrance year after year.