What to Do About Dracaena Suffering from Root Rot
As a representative of tropical succulent plants, the Dracaena is favored by gardening enthusiasts for its unique shape. However, due to its fleshy root characteristics, issues with waterlogging and root rot frequently occur. This article will systematically explain how to revitalize a濒危 plant from root rescue to optimized care.
The Three-Step Rescue Plan for Dracaena Root Rot
1. Safe Potting Operation
Upon noticing signs of root rot such as soft leaves and blackened stems, watering must be immediately stopped. Choose a sunny day, use a bamboo skewer to loosen the soil along the pot wall, and gently remove the pot while holding the base of the plant. Retain the protective soil around the main roots to avoid secondary damage to healthy roots.
2. Scientific Root Treatment
Use a soft-bristled brush to remove the old soil, cut off the blackened and rotten roots until the white cut surface is exposed. Retain healthy aerial roots that are more than 3cm long, soak in a carbendazim solution (1:1000) for 20 minutes, and then place in a shaded and well-ventilated area to dry for 48 hours.
3. Precise Potting Skills
Choose a breathable red pottery pot, and place a 3cm layer of volcanic rock at the bottom for drainage. Mix the particle soil formula: 40% Akadama, 30% vermiculite, 20% coconut bran, and 10% bone meal. When planting, ensure the roots are spread out, and after covering with soil, let it sit for 3 days before giving a small amount of water.
Optimized Care Plan for Dracaena
Smart Watering System
During the growing seasons of spring and autumn, use the『soak pot method』to replenish water, with water temperature matching the ambient temperature. In the high-temperature dormant period of summer, only 100ml of water is needed along the pot edge per month, and in the low-temperature period of winter, watering is completely stopped. Use the bamboo skewer test to determine dryness: if there is no moisture after 2 hours, water can be added.
Precise Fertilization Strategy
Apply slow-release fertilizer (NPK 10-15-10) from April to June, with 5-8 granules per pot. Combine with foliar application of seaweed extract (1:1500) every 15 days. Note that fertilization must be completely stopped during high-temperature periods (＞32℃) and low-temperature periods (＜15℃).
Environmental Control Key Points
Maintain 6 hours of scattered light per day, use shade nets in the summer to filter 50% of the strong sunlight. Keep the day-night temperature difference above 8℃, with an ideal air humidity of 40-60%. Every quarter, apply a 2000x solution of avermectin to the roots to prevent diseases and pests such as root mealybugs.
Through scientific rescue and systematic care, the recovery period for Dracaena usually takes 3-6 months. After new roots have sprouted, gradually increase the light intensity. It is recommended to change the potting soil every 2 years, regularly check the root status, and fundamentally prevent the recurrence of root rot.