How to Treat and Rescue Root Rot in Geraniums

1. Replace the Soil

Cause: If the soil has poor aeration, standing water is not easily drained away. Water accumulating in the potting soil, combined with a hot, stuffy environment, can very easily lead to root rot.

Solution: Replace the soil as soon as possible with a loose mix that drains and aerates well.

2. Repot with Care

Cause: Many growers are careless when repotting and often injure the roots of the geranium. Once a wound appears, bacteria breed and root rot follows.

Solution: Be careful when repotting and try not to damage the roots. If you accidentally injure them, disinfect them promptly.

3. Water Moderately

Cause: Watering too much easily creates standing water, and if that water cannot drain away, the roots will rot.

Solution: Reduce the amount of water and control how often you water. Before watering, it is best to check how moist the soil is; if it has dried out completely, water promptly.

4. Prevent and Control Pests and Diseases

Cause: The appearance of pests and diseases, such as nematodes, can very easily lead to root rot.

Solution: Once pests are found, spray promptly with a pesticide and disinfect the potting soil. Then cut off the rotted roots, disinfect them and replant.