What to Do When a Pothos Has Root Rot? A Detailed Guide to the Latest Treatment Methods

Pothos is a very common plant in our daily lives. Because it is fairly shade-tolerant, prefers a warm growing environment, has a certain ornamental value in itself, and also has the ability to purify the air, it is very suitable for growing at home. The pothos's vitality is extremely tenacious, and it can survive as soon as it meets water, but even for a plant like this, improper planting can still lead to root rot. Below, Qinong Web will introduce to you the causes of pothos root rot and what to do when a pothos has root rot.

1. Causes of pothos root rot

There are two ways to cultivate pothos: it can be grown in soil or in water. The causes of root rot differ depending on the growing method, but to sum up, they are mainly the following aspects. Let us take a look together.

1. Temperature too low

Pothos likes a hot and humid growing environment. The most suitable growing temperature is 15~25°C, and in winter it cannot go below 10°C if it is to overwinter safely. If the temperature is too low, the growth of the pothos's roots will be inhibited, making root rot likely.

2. Overwatering

Pothos likes water, but that does not mean it should be watered more. Soil culture and water culture are different. In water culture, the water is changed frequently, and it is enough to ensure there is sufficient oxygen in the water. In soil culture, watering simply provides water for the plant's growth. When too much water is given, the soil becomes oxygen-deficient, the roots cannot get oxygen, and rot occurs.

3. Disease

The occurrence of disease cannot be avoided; it can only be controlled by spraying agents in time. The hot and humid environment that pothos likes happens to also be the growing environment favored by pathogens, fungi, and the like.

4. Poor water quality

Another important cause of root rot is dirty water quality. There are large amounts of bacteria in the water, and when the roots remain in this kind of environment for a long time, their growth cannot get enough nutrients, making root rot very likely.

2. Treatment methods for pothos root rot

Now that you know the causes of pothos root rot, below we will introduce the treatment methods for pothos root rot. In fact, the pothos's vitality is fairly tenacious, and most of the time there is no need to dig it out to deal with it. In the subsequent care, you just need to pay more attention, ensure a suitable temperature, water in appropriate amounts, keep the water clean, and spray agents at the right time to disinfect and sterilize. Basically there will not be any major problems.

However, if the degree of root rot in the pothos is fairly serious, Qinong Web hereby suggests that you deal with it seriously. The specific treatment method should be chosen according to the different cultivation methods.

1. Pothos grown in soil

Usually, root rot in soil-grown pothos is caused by water accumulation. At this time, the original soil absolutely must not be used again. You need to prepare new soil for the pothos, and you can add more large-particle soil such as peat. Use scissors to cut off the rotted roots of the pothos, rinse them clean with clear water, and after they dry, replant them.

2. Pothos grown in water

If water-grown pothos has root rot, then the grower must not have treated it with care, and the water must not have been changed for a very long time. The roots of such pothos will gradually turn to mush, and there will also be a foul odor. Fortunately, the pothos's vitality is tenacious. At this time, take the pothos out and cut off the rotted parts. In addition, be sure to wash the bottle clean and disinfect it as well. Then change the water and regrow it in water.

If the pothos root rot really has progressed beyond saving, then you can only discard the original plant and select one of the better branches and leaves to take a cutting and replant it once more.

The above is what Qinong Web has brought you regarding the causes of pothos root rot and the treatment methods. We hope it can be of some help to you. As the “flower of life”, pothos can grow very well as soon as it meets water, and it is indeed a very easy-to-grow green plant. When growing it, friends, be sure not to be lazy and ruin such a fine potted plant.