How to Deal with Light Root Rot in Jiva莲
Jiva莲, as a representative of the Crassula family, is loved by horticulture enthusiasts for its lotus-like leaf rosette. However, improper watering or excessive humidity can easily lead to soft and rotten roots. This article systematically explains three step-by-step rescue plans for mild to moderate root rot.
Four Steps for Emergency Treatment of Severe Root Rot
Step One: Precise Potting and Debridement
Tilt the pot at a 45-degree angle and gently tap the pot wall, then grasp the base and slowly pull out the plant. After rinsing the root mass with running water, cut off all black and slippery roots with scissors sanitized with alcohol, leaving about 1-2 cm of healthy white root tips.
Step Two: Double Disinfection Protection
Prepare an 800-fold dilution of carbendazim solution, soak the roots for 15 minutes, and then remove. Lay flat in a cool and well-ventilated area to dry for 72 hours. This allows the incision to form a translucent callus layer, effectively preventing secondary fungal infection.
Step Three: Intelligent Root Induction
It is recommended to use the suspended hydroponic method: fill a transparent container with water 3 cm from the bottle opening, support the base of the plant with wire mesh, and stimulate root growth with steam. Change the water every 3 days and add B1 root growth promoter, usually new root points can be seen within 7-10 days.
Step Four: Progressive Potting Care
When the new roots grow to 2 cm, use a mix of 70% granular soil and 30% peat soil for potting. Keep the substrate slightly moist during the first week, place it in a scattered light environment, and return to a normal care cycle after the leaves regain their firmness.
In-situ Rescue Plan for Mild Root Rot
Step One: Stereoscopic Ventilation and Moisture Control
Turn on the circulating fan to blow directly on the soil surface and use bamboo sticks to create ventilation holes in the pot wall. During the rainy season, turn on the dehumidifier to keep the environmental humidity at ≤60% and reduce the soil moisture content to below 30% within 3 days.
Step Two: Layered Loosening Technique
Use the "Three-Layer Tilling Method": loosen the top 2 cm with tweezers, turn over the middle 5 cm with a curved-blade spade, and use the siphon method to insert a water pipe into the bottom layer to drain accumulated water. After turning each layer, let it dry for 6 hours, repeating the process until the root zone is completely dry.
Advanced Care Prevention System
Establish the "3-2-1 Watering Rule": water thoroughly every 3 weeks in spring and autumn, give minimal water every 2 months during the summer dormancy period, and add 50 ml of water along the pot wall every month in winter. Pairing with a red pottery pot and a red jade soil substrate can reduce the probability of root rot by 80%.
When the lower leaves continue to wilt and the center of the leaves turns yellow, immediately stop watering and apply a 2000-fold solution of metalaxyl to the roots. Remember that for succulent plants, the "drying crisis" is far better than the "wet risk," and scientific care is essential to maintain the elegant shape of Jiva莲.