Succulent Root Rotting Treatment : succulent rotting stem problem, signs of root rot in succulents. In most cases. One of the most common causes of plant illness (and even death) is rotting succulent roots. Succulent rotting is an issue brought upon by poor draining soil and too much moisture or excessive water.
Succulents grow healthier in well-drained soil
Signs Of Root Rot In Succulents
I you notice Succulent roots have turned dark brown or black, it indicates that your Succulent plant has developed infected roots. As a result, you need to treat it immediately, or else your plant will die.
In case the rot spreads to stems and leaves, they will become paler and yellow. Over the course of time, the leaves of your succulents will become mushy. If the lower leaves are turning pale, it is probably because of overwatering. Nevertheless, if the top leaves become yellow, it probably indicates a nutrient deficiency.
Ways To Treat Root Rot
Fixing the roots of your succulent before your plant dies completely depends on how early you determine the rotten roots and start treating it. In most cases, however, identifying the issue is never easy; particularly in the early period. Nevertheless, there are some ways you can treat and cure your lovely succulent with rotten roots.
1. Use The ‘Drying Technique’
First and foremost, allowing your plump greens to dry out is a potential cure. However, this technique does not work every time. It is effective only when the rot has not spread into the stem. Furthermore, it usually works before your affected plant’s leaves turn yellow. But it’s quite difficult to predict whether or not the plant has been cured. So, it’s better to repot it a couple of days later. However, if you find the roots have not been completely fixed, leave your delicate plant unpotted for a few days for air dry.
2. Trim Off The Roots
If you find the roots have become rotten, trimming the affected part can help save your plant from dying. However, make sure to cut off a few centimeters above the infected area. So, if the internal part of your plant’s roots would be rotting too, cutting it off will completely remove the rot. Make sure the remaining part of the stem is clean and do not have any black spot (sign of root rot). After trimming off the rotten part, let the cuttings callus for a couple days. DO NOT skip this step. This will increase the chance of surviving for your succulents.
If you do not trim off the rotten stem, it will continue to spread, affecting all of your plant. As a result, your succulent will die soon. Moreover, trimming the root is among the positive pruning practices. Therefore, do not be worried about chopping it off.
3. Propagating
Propagating with the healthy cuttings can be your last bet to save plant. To do that, cut the stems 2-inches above the rotted part and plant it in soil. Do not water it for a day or two; it is possible that these cuttings will grow back into healthy and happy succulent.