Identifying the Problem
A customer brought in a houseplant clearly in distress. The plant was examined, starting with loosening the root ball to check the health of the roots. Healthy roots are vital for the plant’s overall health, so this step is crucial.
Recognizing Overwatering and Root Rot
Upon overwatered indoor plant inspection, the soil was very wet and saturated, confirming suspicions of root rot. For the size of the plant, there were too few healthy roots, with many already dead. Root rot often occurs when plants in low light conditions are watered too frequently.
The Role of Light in Plant Health
Plants in low light environments process water more slowly, increasing the risk of root rot. Light helps to process water in the soil, so ensuring proper lighting is essential.
Cleaning and Sanitizing the Roots
Cleaning the roots thoroughly is critical for removing soil containing harmful bacteria. Several methods can be used:
- Using a paintbrush or broom to brush off the soil.
- Swishing the roots in water to clean them effectively.
- Using a spray nozzle, shower head, or hose for thorough cleaning.
Drying or Disinfecting the Roots
To combat bacteria and pathogens, you can:
- Leave the roots out to dry overnight, as harmful organisms can’t survive in dry conditions.
- Spray roots with 3% hydrogen peroxide, which is safe for plants and neutralizes harmful bacteria.
Pruning Dead Roots
Dead and mushy roots should be removed carefully. This can be done by gently brushing them off or using pruners to cut them away. This step prevents the problem from persisting in new soil.
Choosing the Right Pot and Soil
When repotting, selecting the correct pot size is essential:
- Increase the pot size by only 1–2 inches.
- Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
A well draining soil mix is recommended:
- One part houseplant soil.
- One part orchid bark.
- One part perlite.
Adding slow release fertilizer can also be beneficial.
Repotting the Plant
Place the plant in the new pot and backfill with soil. Ensure the soil level stays below the lowest leaves to avoid leaf damage. Slapping the pot helps settle the soil around the roots for better contact and moisture absorption.
Trimming Dead Leaves
Any yellowing or kinked leaves should be removed. These leaves won’t recover and could detract from the plant’s overall appearance and health.
Post-Repotting Care
For recovery, the plant should be placed in bright light. While the plant can tolerate low light, bright light will help it recover faster from shock caused by root rot and repotting.
Watering the Plant
After repotting, the plant must be watered to prevent stress from dry soil. This step ensures the roots have access to nutrients and moisture, aiding recovery.
Path to Recovery
With proper care, the plant should begin growing new leaves within 3,4 weeks. By the end of spring, it will likely be a healthy, beautiful plant once again.
