What to do with the rotten roots of the ruler
As a star variety among cactus plants, the measuring ruler is deeply loved by horticulture enthusiasts for its unique shape and drought-tolerant characteristics. However, in the actual maintenance process, the problem of rotten roots has become a common problem that plagues growers. This article will deeply analyze the cause system of the rotten roots of the measuring ruler and provide systematic treatment plans. The three major inducements of measuring Tianchi root rot are improper cultivation substrates. The special soil for cactus needs to meet the standard of porosity>30%. It is recommended to use the gold ratio of red jade soil (40%)+ coarse sand (30%)+ perlite (30%). New soil needs to be replaced every spring to avoid soil hardening and affecting root respiration. Imbalanced water and fertilizer management The amount of watering should follow the principle of "watering in the spring and autumn half of the month, watering in the ten days in the summer, and cutting off water in the winter" to keep the soil moisture less than 40%. Fertilization uses special slow-release fertilizer for cactus, and 3-5 grains are top-applied every two months during the growth period to avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer causing root rot. Environmental regulation mistakes maintain the temperature in the range of 18-32℃ and the air humidity is controlled at 40%-60%. In winter, it is necessary to ensure that the temperature at night is>10℃, and in summer, continuous rain causes water accumulation in the substrate. The four-step first-aid treatment of rotted roots and lesions is carried out using an alcohol-disinfected gardening knife, and a 45-degree oblique incision is used along the upper edge of the rotted area 2 cm. Apply a mixture of carbendazim (concentration 0.5%) and plant ash (3:1) to the incision, and place it in a ventilated and cool place to dry for 72 hours. Vermiculite particles with a diameter of 3-5mm are used as the cuttage substrate for the preparation of the regenerated substrate, which need to be sterilized by high temperature steam before use. The container is a breathable red pottery basin with a diameter of 15cm, and a ceramsite drainage layer with a thickness of 3 cm is laid on the bottom. Scientifically promote root management and control the cutting depth to 5-8cm, and maintain the micro-moist state of the substrate (water content is about 20%). Receive scattered light for 4-6 hours during the day and maintain a constant temperature environment of 25 ° C at night. After 30 days, the plants were gently lifted to test the root adhesion. Key points for rejuvenation and maintenance: After new roots grow to 3cm, they can be transplanted to conventional substrate, and water is supplied by dipping pot method in the first month. Supplement calcium and magnesium trace element fertilizers once a quarter, and use LED plant lights to replenish light for 2 hours a day to enhance stress resistance.
By regularly checking the root status (it is recommended to remove the pots for observation every season), establishing standardized maintenance logs, and equipping professional testing instruments (soil hygrometer/light meter), the recurrence of rotten roots can be effectively prevented. Remember: The root system of a healthy plant should be milky white and elastic, with a diameter of 1/3 of the main stem being the optimal growth state.