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Root Rot

Root Rot: The decay of plant roots, often caused by over-watering or fungal infections, leading to wilting and death.

Imagine root rot as a sneaky villain attacking your plant’s underground support system. It’s like a slow-motion horror movie playing in your garden’s depths. Root rot is typically caused by too much water or nasty fungal invaders, so root rot turns healthy roots into mushy, brown messes. It’s like your plant’s plumbing system is crumbling from the inside.

For a novice gardener, over-watering is the most common culprit. It’s like constantly bathing your plants, even when begging for a break. Soggy soil creates the perfect breeding ground for fungal diseases, which love to feast on weakened roots. Think of it as throwing a party for all the bad guys in the neighborhood. Symptoms include wilting leaves, even when the soil is wet, and a general lack of vigor. It’s like your plant is waving a white flag, surrendering to the soggy siege.

To prevent this soggy demise, ensure your soil has good drainage. It is like making sure the water can escape the bathtub. Let the top inch or two of soil dry out between waterings. And if you suspect root rot, act quickly! Remove infected plants and replace the soil, or use a fungicide designed for root diseases. It’s like calling in the garden SWAT team to deal with the underground threat.

Zamiaculcas, a dollar tree in a white pot on the floor. Transfer. The roots of the plant rotted away.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as health, wellness or nutrition advice. Please see our full disclaimers here.

 

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Written by:
Kevin Mansoor
Published on:
February 27, 2025

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