What to Do About the Root Rot in Chinese Roses
Chinese roses, as one of the three treasures of the garden, have vibrant and droplet-like flowers that often captivate people. However, the issue of root rot and yellow leaves caused by improper watering during maintenance can be a headache for rose enthusiasts. Root rot not only affects the quality of flowering but can also lead to the death of the plant in severe cases. This article will systematically analyze the causes of root rot from multiple dimensions and provide scientific and effective rescue solutions.
Four Steps for Emergency Treatment of Root Rot in Chinese Roses
1. Emergency Drainage Measures
When severe waterlogging in the potting soil is detected, immediately tilt the pot at a 45-degree angle and use chopsticks to clear the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot. Enhance air circulation by using an electric fan and move the plant to a place with ample scattered light, avoiding direct sunlight that can cause secondary damage. Use a bamboo skewer inserted into the soil to check moisture; stop ventilation when soil particles stick to the skewer.
2. Smart Water Control Solution
Water in the morning before 10 a.m. in spring and autumn, in the evening after 6 p.m. in summer, and at noon in winter. Adopt the "dry-wet" principle: insert the second joint of the index finger into the soil; if there is no dampness at the fingertip, water the plant. It is recommended to use a long-spout watering jug to slowly渗透 along the pot edge, combined with a soil moisture meter for precise monitoring.
3. Soil Improvement Project
Use a three-toothed soil cultivator to perform shallow cultivation (depth 3-5 cm) every month, adding perlite (15%) and pinephosphate (10%) to improve aeration. When the soil is severely compacted, use the "pot-in-pot method": place the original pot in a larger root control pot and fill the gap with ceramsite to form an air layer, which can both retain water and prevent waterlogging.
4. Root Regeneration Surgery
When continuous defoliation occurs, check the roots by removing the pot. Use a sterilized pruning shear to remove brown and soft roots, retaining the white and tender new roots. After applying a fungicide powder to the wound, repot using a new matrix of peat soil: coconut bran: vermiculite = 5:3:2. During the slow recovery period, cover with a transparent plastic bag to maintain humidity and ventilate for 2 hours daily.
Prevention is better than cure. For daily maintenance, choose breathable containers like green mountain pots and regularly add microbial agents to enhance root vitality. Master the watering philosophy of "better dry than wet," combined with scientific soil mixing, to keep Chinese roses free from root rot issues and bloom beautifully.