Diseases Diagnostic
Critical Severity LevelRoot Rot (Pythium / Phytophthora)
Fungal infection caused by stagnant moisture that rots root systems, making roots mushy, dark brown, and foul-smelling.
Key Visual Symptoms
- Stunted growth and rapid wilting despite wet soil
- Leaves turning brown, black, or translucent yellow
- Dark, slimy, foul-odored roots when unpotted
Underlying Causes
- Soggy, waterlogged soil lacking aeration
- Pots without drainage holes or sitting in drainage saucers
- Fungal pathogens flourishing in low-oxygen environments
Emergency Treatment Protocol
1Unpot plant immediately and gently wash roots
2Trim all dark, mushy, rotten roots using sterile shears
3Soak remaining healthy roots in diluted 3% hydrogen peroxide solution
4Repot into fresh, dry potting mix in a disinfected container
Long-Term Prevention Guidelines
- Never allow plants to sit in standing saucer water
- Mix 30% perlite or orchid bark into potting soil
- Reduce watering frequency in autumn and winter