What to Do If the Root of a蟹爪兰 (Dischidia) Is Rotting
As a widely popular indoor ornamental plant, the蟹爪兰 is loved by gardening enthusiasts for its unique flower shape and rich colors. However, during the care process, the issue of root rot often leaves growers at a loss. This article will delve into the causes of root rot and provide systematic solutions to the key points of caring for蟹爪兰.
Analysis of the Causes of Root Rot in蟹爪兰
Root Rot Caused by Overwatering
Being a succulent plant,蟹爪兰 is extremely sensitive to water. When the potting soil is not dry before rewatering, or when using heavy, poorly draining soil, the roots are constantly in a damp environment, leading to impaired respiration. Experimental data shows that in a 30℃ environment, waterlogging for more than 48 hours can cause symptoms of root rot.
Root Damage from Improper Fertilization
This plant has very low fertilizer requirements, and a liquid fertilizer concentration exceeding 0.1% can cause fertilizer damage. Especially during the summer dormancy period (June-August), using uncomposted organic fertilizer or high-concentration chemical fertilizers can directly burn the absorbent roots. It is recommended to use a diluted potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution (1:3000) for foliar top dressing.
Professional Root Repair Solutions
Emergency Treatment Procedures
Upon discovering root rot, immediately remove the plant from the pot and use a sterilized pair of scissors to cut 2cm above the healthy tissue at an oblique angle. Place the treated plant in a well-ventilated area at 25℃ to air-dry the roots for 48 hours, then after the incision has fully healed, replant using a mixture of perlite and vermiculite (3:1 ratio).
Special Treatment for Grafted Plants
For plants grafted onto cacti, it is necessary to check the condition of the rootstock. If the rootstock shows brown lesions, cut the scion entirely and soak it in a Vitamin B12 solution for 30 minutes before regrafting. It is recommended to perform a second grafting in winter (December-February) to increase the success rate.
Key Management Points for Mature Plants
For adult plants with a crown diameter over 40cm, after root pruning, it is necessary to prune 1/3 of the branches. During the initial care period, maintain a humidity level of 70%-80% and use the immersion method to water (twice a week, 10 minutes each time). The cycle for new root growth is usually 15-20 days.
Disease Prevention and Daily Maintenance
It is recommended to use a fungicide solution of carbendazim at 800 times concentration for preventative root soaking each quarter. Water every 10-15 days in spring and autumn, extend to 20-25 days in summer, and maintain an ambient temperature of over 15℃ during the winter flowering period. Morning and evening foliar spraying can effectively extend the flowering period. Through scientific management,蟹爪兰 can maintain its ornamental value for 5-8 years.