Symptoms of Crop Root Disorders and Analysis of Their Causes

1. A large number of roots grow above the planting medium. Causes: Improper planting method. 2. Roots grow out of the pot, and new shoots grow at the pot rim or extend out of the pot. Causes: It is time to repot or divide the plant. 3. Roots grow upward and out over the pot rim. Causes: Overwatering, and the planting medium is too dense. 4. The root mass dies off, with more dead roots in the upper layer than in the lower layer, and the stems and leaves shrink and wilt. Causes: Excessive fertilization or high salt content in the water, causing toxicity. 5. Roots and leaves turn dark brown, shrink, or rot. Causes: Too much soluble salt (such as from improper fertilization) or toxic substances in the planting medium. 6. Apart from healthy roots on the new shoots, all other roots have died. Causes: Overwatering, poor drainage, or the planting medium is too old or too dense. 7. The roots have small holes or signs of being gnawed. Causes: Watch for damage by snails, slugs, and field mice. (Xue Congxian)