What to Do When a ZZ Plant Has Root Rot? Detailed Guide to the Correct Treatment

The ZZ plant, originally named Zamioculcas zamiifolia (aroid palm), is a herbaceous plant native to tropical and subtropical regions. Because its leaves are opposite and arranged much like gold coins, when it was first introduced to our country people did not know its name and called it “money tree” and “gold coin tree”, and the name gradually spread. The ZZ plant's leaves are rather thick and glossy, making it very suitable for ornamental use, and combined with such an auspicious name, many people grow it. Today Qinnong Net will explain how to deal with problems such as root rot in the ZZ plant.

I. Causes of root rot in the ZZ plant

Before discussing what to do about ZZ plant root rot, let us first understand the causes of ZZ plant root rot. Qinnong Net has summarized four points here, including watering, fertilizing, temperature and pests and diseases. Let us take a closer look below.

1. Improper watering

Usually, when a ZZ plant is watered too much, root rot results. The ZZ plant itself likes slightly moist soil, and the potting soil should not be too dry, but if it is watered too much, the harm of root rot can occur. This is because when there is too much water, the potting soil is very likely to become waterlogged, the roots find it hard to breathe, and large numbers of pathogens breed, causing root rot.

2. Improper fertilizing

Improper fertilizing is also one of the causes of root rot in the ZZ plant. This is basically because when fertilizing the ZZ plant, the fertilizer is too concentrated; when the root system has not grown well, overly concentrated fertilizer can burn the roots of the ZZ plant and cause root rot.

3. Temperature too low

In fact, there are also some other factors that cause root rot in the ZZ plant, such as low temperatures and cold, especially when the temperature in winter is very low, when frost damage can even occur, causing the ZZ plant to be chilled and then showing root rot.

4. Invasion by pathogens

In addition, there is the attack of pathogens. If pathogens are accidentally introduced into the water when it rains or when watering, the plant can become infected by pathogens, which may lead to root rot.

II. Solutions for ZZ plant root rot

Once a ZZ plant develops root rot, it must be replanted. First pull the plant out of the soil, wash off the soil, observe and find the rotted parts, and cut them off with scissors; here you can cut away a bit more to make sure the rotted parts have been completely removed. Then soak it in carbendazim solution or sprinkle on some charcoal, leave it in a cool place to dry, and then replant it in a pot. To improve the survival rate of the ZZ plant after transplanting, you can also appropriately prune away some branches and leaves to reduce nutrient consumption.

III. Daily care for the ZZ plant

Properly caring for a ZZ plant requires more effort in daily life, and basically includes watering, fertilizing and keeping it warm. Watering should follow the plant's growth needs; do not water too much, and also avoid the occurrence of waterlogging. Remember not to fertilize too strongly or too frequently; light, frequent feeding is best, as this can avoid the occurrence of root rot.

The above is Qinnong Net's summary of the causes of and solutions for ZZ plant root rot. Have you learned it? Here Qinnong Net would like to remind everyone that before growing a plant, you must first understand the plant's growth habits well. In addition to helping you understand the plant better, this can also reduce the occurrence of diseases. We hope you will pay more attention.