More and more enthusiasts are turning to orchids to add a pretty accent to their home. And that's a really good idea, because the cultivated varieties are relatively easy to care for, especially if you keep the number of plants to a minimum so that you can give them the attention they need. Despite theeasy careOf course, there are some things you should pay attention to and sometimes some problems arise. Maintaining just the right amount of moisture proves to be a bit of a difficult task and rotten orchid roots are a typical problem. Today we will explain why the roots can rot, how to determine whether they have rotted at all and what you can do if this happens.
Identify rotting orchid roots
The rotting roots of the orchid are not always immediately recognizable. Especially if these are in the substrate (the alien ones rot less often, depending on the cause), the problem is not immediately noticeable. What signs could indicate that your orchid's roots have rotted?
- DieLeaves turn yellow.
- The aerial roots (extraterrestrial) turn white.
- Your plant is no longer as stable in its substrate.
- The orchid has had buds for a long time, but they just don't open.
- The surface of the substrate is moist/precipitation is forming.
If you have noticed that the roots of your orchid have rotted, you first have to find out what the cause could be and fix the problem. One obvious cause istoo much moisture– perhaps you are watering or dipping your plant far too often. If the light is not optimal or the humidity in the room is very high, you have ideal conditions for root rot. In this case you should reduce the watering.
Too much moisture is also encouraged if thatSubstrate not optimalis. This is why it is important to use a quality brand. The substrate must not be too dense either. A loose composition guarantees good ventilation, which also reduces excessive moisture. The substrate should also be replaced after about two years, as it decomposes over time and therefore becomes compacted.
If you have yourFertilize orchids, be careful not to overdo it with the quantity. Follow the manufacturer's instructions becausetoo much fertilizercan also promote root rot by burning the surface of the roots, preventing them from absorbing nutrients. Last but not least, it should be said that of course not in all cases you are to blame for the orchid's rotten roots. Sometimes the plant simply has oneIllnesson or isinfested by pests. Viruses, fungi and black rot are quite common in orchids.
What to do if orchid roots are rotting?
Don't give up on your orchid right away, because with timely measures you can definitely save it. Overall, proper orchid root care depends on the cause.
In case of rot due to overwatering
Is the cause of thatrotten rootsIf there is just too much moisture in the orchid, remove the rotten parts and then water more sparingly:
- Prepare a pair of sharp scissors that you disinfect beforehand to avoid transmitting diseases.
- Remove the plant from the pot and substrate. Rinse the roots if necessary.
- Remove any dead or damaged orchid roots.
- Check the root collar: If this is also damaged, you can cut back the damaged part until you see a green layer.
- You can protect the interfaces from infection by disinfecting them with wood ash, activated charcoal, cinnamon or green tea.
- Now let the plant air dry as it is for about 8 hours.
- Take a new pot, hold the plant in it and fill the free areas between the remaining healthy roots with new substrate.
- Do not water or submerge the orchid immediately, but wait 4 or 5 days.
In case of root rot
Also for root rotas a result of an illnessor pests, the orchid can be saved, provided you recognize the problem early and act immediately by treating the still intact roots with the following remedies (remove any damaged ones first as described above):
- Boil 3 medium-sized onions in water for half an hour and then let them steep for another 24 hours. The resulting decoction is said to heal the roots. To do this, immerse them in the onion solution for 10 minutes.
- Prepare a soapy solution of dish soap and water, immerse the roots for 2 to 3 minutes and rinse the roots thoroughly. This is particularly effective when there is a pest infestation.
- You can also treat roots with olive oil by mixing 10 ml of it in a liter of water and soaking the roots for 10 minutes.
What if all of the orchid's roots need to be removed?
Believe it or not, even without roots, there is still a chance that your orchid will survive. After removing the orchid's rotten roots and disinfecting the cuts (or with an antiseptic/fungicide) as described above, let it dry for 8 hours before replanting it in a new container with new substrate. The plant could then grow new roots in about a month. To this end, you should now properly cover your needs.
