What to Do if the Happiness Tree's Roots Are Damaged During Repotting
The Happiness Tree, as a new favorite indoor green plant, can easily damage its roots if the repotting process is not careful. When the leaves show signs of wilt or yellowing, it often indicates that the roots have been injured. This article will systematically explain the full process of care from root injury identification to complete recovery, helping the plant quickly regain vitality.
Ⅰ. Steps for Handling Root Damage in the Happiness Tree
1.1 Accurate Identification of Root Damage
If the leaves continue to curl and new buds stop growing 2-3 weeks after repotting, you need to check the roots immediately. Healthy roots are milky white and elastic, while damaged roots appear as brown and soft decay.
1.2 Scientific Pruning Operation Specifications
Use disinfected pruning shears to trim the dead roots at a 45-degree angle. Retain the main root length of at least 5cm, ensuring the cut is smooth. After pruning, soak in a 800x solution of carbendazim for 15 minutes, then let it dry halfway before repotting.
Ⅱ. Key Points of Care During the Root Repair Period
2.1 Golden Rule of Water Management
Follow the 'Three Slow Principles': Slow watering (first watering 72 hours after repotting), slow fertilizing (no fertilizing for 1 month), and slow exposure to light (place in a scattered light environment). Use the bamboo stake method to check, and water thoroughly when the soil is dry 3cm deep.
2.2 Triple Assurance of Environmental Control
Keep the temperature between 18-25°C and the humidity between 60%-70%. Spray twice a day, in the morning and evening, and turn on the humidifier at noon. Use a shading net to filter 50% of direct sunlight, ensuring 4 hours of soft lighting every day.
2.3 Balancing Techniques for Pruning Branches and Leaves
Follow the 'Three Cuts and Three Retains' principle: cut dense and retain sparse, cut weak and retain strong, cut old and retain new. Remove 30%-40% of the total leaf amount, focusing on cutting the lower old leaves and crossing branches. Retain the top 3-5 functional leaves to maintain photosynthesis.
Ⅲ. Long-Term Management of Root Care
After the repair period, use a mixed matrix of ceramsite + pine phosphate + peat soil (1:2:7), and water with EM bacteria solution every quarter to enhance root vitality. Supplement with seaweed extract once a month during the growing season, and use bamboo vinegar solution to prevent root rot. Regularly rotate the pot to ensure balanced root development.