What Causes the Root Rot of a Money Tree
As a common wealth-attracting plant in offices and homes, the issue of root rot in money trees has perplexed many gardeners. This article will systematically analyze the three major causes of root decay and provide a practical rescue plan to help you save your beloved greenery.
One, Deep Analysis of the Causes of Money Tree Root Rot
1.1 Improper Watering Causes Root Suffocation
Statistics show that 75% of root rot cases are caused by overwatering. The money tree's robust trunk has water storage capabilities and is more drought-resistant than flood-resistant. When the potting soil remains moist for more than 72 hours, the roots will undergo anaerobic respiration due to lack of oxygen, leading to cell necrosis. It is recommended to use the "Insertion Detection Method": insert a bamboo skewer 2/3 into the potting soil, then check the moisture level before deciding to water.
1.2 Hidden Threat of Fungal Infection
Undisinfected soil may carry pathogens such as Fusarium and Pythium. Experimental data shows that these fungi can multiply 300 times in a moist environment at 25-30°C within 24 hours. Regularly watering with a carbendazim solution (1:800 ratio) can effectively prevent this, with special attention to increasing ventilation time before and after the rainy season.
1.3 Physical Damage from Sudden Temperature Changes
When the ambient temperature drops below 12°C, the permeability of the money tree's root cell membrane changes. Research on cold resistance confirms that continuous exposure to 5°C low temperature for 3 hours can cause irreversible frostbite. In northern regions, it is recommended to move the plants indoors 2 weeks before the first frost and use double-layer insulating pot covers to maintain root temperature.
Two, Four-Step Rescue Method Practical Guide
2.1 Criteria for Determining the Degree of Root Damage
Mild root rot (≤30%): Only stop watering and loosen the soil; Moderate (30-60%): Need to prune and disinfect; Severe (>60%): Suggested hydroponic root growth. Determine by observing the color of the incision: white indicates healthy roots, and brown requires pruning until white is seen.
2.2 Professional Potting Operation Process
Choose a red clay pot (32% more breathable than a plastic pot), and place a 3cm layer of ceramsite. The matrix should be mixed in the ratio of coconut bran: perlite: decomposed leaf soil = 4:3:3, with 5% bone meal added to enhance disease resistance. Avoid watering within 72 hours after planting and use 101 Vitality Essence 2000x solution to spray the leaves for moisture.
Three, Golden Rules for Daily Maintenance
Establish a periodic maintenance log, recording data such as watering time and the growth rate of new leaves. Apply a foliage plant-specific fertilizer (N-P-K=9-3-6) every 15 days during spring and summer, and switch to once a month during autumn and winter. Perform preventive root pruning around Qingming Festival every year, which can reduce the risk of root rot by 85%.
With scientific diagnosis and precise intervention, 80% of money trees can recover within 30 days. The key is to adhere to the three principles of "early detection, quick treatment, and diligent observation" to restore the vibrant vitality of your wealth tree.