What to do about the rotting roots of a燕子掌?
As a high-quality representative among succulent plants,燕子掌 is deeply loved by plant enthusiasts for its thick leaves and robust vitality. However, the most troublesome issue during maintenance, root rot, often puts the plant to the test of life and death. This article will systematically explain the essentials of dealing with燕子掌 root rot from cause analysis to practical treatment.
Analysis of the Causes of Root Rot in燕子掌
Survival Crisis Caused by Waterlogging
80% of root rot cases are caused by improper watering. The succulent roots of燕子掌 are extremely sensitive to waterlogging, and when the soil remains moist for more than 72 hours, the roots start to brown and rot due to lack of oxygen. Especially when using glazed ceramic pots, the risk of waterlogging is increased due to fewer drainage holes at the bottom.
Full Process of Treating Root Rot in燕子掌
Four Steps for Emergency Rescue
1. Remove pot and clean soil: Gently tap the pot wall to loosen the soil, and use a soft-bristle brush to remove the soil attached to the roots. 2. Precise pruning: Use a sterilized scissor to cut off the brown and soft rot tissue, retaining the healthy white roots. 3. Wound disinfection: Apply mycostatin/lime to form a protective film, and let it dry for 3 hours. 4. Repotting: Use a mix of red jade soil and perlite (6:4) as the growing medium, and repot with moist soil.
Postoperative Care Tips
Keep the plant in a scattered light environment during the slow seedling period and strictly control water within 15 days. When new buds are observed, gradually resume normal maintenance. It is recommended to use the bamboo stake test: insert a bamboo stake 2/3 into the soil, and water only when there is no moisture trace when pulled out.
Care System to Prevent Root Rot
Scientific Soil Mixing Plan
It is recommended to mix volcanic rock, vermiculite, and decomposed leaf soil in a ratio of 4:3:3 to ensure that the matrix porosity reaches over 40%. Change the soil every spring to remove compacted old soil.
Smart Watering Strategy
Water once every 7-10 days in spring and autumn, shorten to every 5 days in summer but reduce the amount of water per time, and add a small amount of water monthly during the dormant period in winter. Using a temperature and humidity meter to monitor environmental data makes it more accurate.
Not only is 燕子掌 a natural air purifier, its ability to release negative oxygen ions at night also helps improve sleep quality. Mastering these maintenance skills, you can not only save endangered plants but also enjoy the surprise of a burst of growth. When the white flowers bloom on the green branches, don't forget to capture this miracle of life with a camera.