What Happens When the Root of the蟹爪兰 (Dischidia) Rot?
As a widely popular indoor ornamental plant, the thick and juicy leaves of蟹爪兰 make it a preferred choice for beginner gardeners. However, many gardening enthusiasts have recently reported issues such as soft leaves and root rot in their plants. This article will systematically analyze from pathological characteristics to treatment solutions, helping you quickly grasp the key techniques for treatment.
Three Main Causes of Root Rot in蟹爪兰
Excessive Watering Leading to Waterlogging
As a typical succulent plant,蟹爪兰 has a very strong water storage capacity in its roots. It is recommended to water once every 15-20 days in spring and autumn, and extend to 25 days during the summer dormant period. Use a bamboo stake inserted into the soil 3cm as a test: if the stake is moist, no additional water is needed. Special attention should be given to the poor breathability of ceramic pots, and the watering interval should be extended by 3-5 days compared to plastic pots.
Excessive Fertilizer Concentration
Excess nutrients are a hidden killer that causes root burn. It is recommended: apply diluted potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution (2000 times) once a month during the growing season; the proportion of decomposed sheep manure in the potting mix should not exceed 10% during potting; and fertilization should be completely stopped during the winter dormant period. If the leaf edges become scorched, immediately rinse the roots with clean water.
Soil Compaction Hindering Respiration
The ideal growing medium should include: coarse coconut fiber 40% + perlite 30% + pine bark 20% + rice husk charcoal 10%. New soil should be changed every spring, and if white crystals or hardening occurs on the surface of the medium, immediate soil loosening should be performed. EM bacteria can be added regularly to improve soil structure.
Four-Step Therapy for Root Rot Treatment
Precise Pot Removal and Root Pruning
When the plant leans or the leaves wilt, immediately stop watering for 3 days. After removing the pot, rinse the roots with running water and use a sterilized scissor to cut off the browned tissue, retaining the healthy white rootlets. When there is a large cut area, keep 1-2 main roots to aid recovery.
Scientific Disinfection Treatment
Soak the trimmed roots in a 50% carbendazim 800x solution for 30 minutes, then place them in a shaded, well-ventilated area to dry for 48 hours. It is recommended to use biofungicides such as Trichoderma instead of chemical agents, which can form a probiotic protective layer.
Optimizing the Growing Medium
When repotting, add 10% vermiculite to enhance drainage and place a 3cm layer of ceramic stones at the bottom of the pot for drainage. Use breathable containers such as red clay pots or green mountain pots, and the diameter of the pot should be 3-5cm larger than the spread of the roots.
Intelligent Maintenance Management
After transplanting, place it in a diffused light environment and keep the medium slightly moist for the first 3 weeks. Use plant vigor enhancers to spray the leaves weekly, and gradually increase light exposure after new buds sprout. It is recommended to install a soil moisture meter for precise management.
Through systematic diagnosis and scientific treatment plans, 80% of root-rotted plants can recover within 60 days. In daily maintenance, it is necessary to establish observation logs, record watering frequency, fertilization amount, and dynamically adjust maintenance strategies according to seasonal changes, to keep蟹爪兰 in the best ornamental state.