What to Do About Root Rot in Succulents? Cause Analysis and Treatment Methods

1. Reduce watering

Cause: Rot is a common disease in succulents, usually caused by overwatering or fungal infection brought on by a growing environment that is too humid. It can also be caused by soil medium that is not breathable and has poor drainage.

Solution: Reduce the frequency of watering, and choose soil with good drainage for cultivation, so that water does not accumulate at the stem for more than a few minutes.

2. Prevent pests

Cause: Some insects, such as mealybugs, can also cause rot, especially root mealybugs. After these pests suck the sap from the plant, the wounds they leave behind may cause fungal infection.

Solution: Pay timely attention to softened or mushy stems and leaves, and spray pesticide promptly when pests are found.

3. Specific treatment methods

Crown rot: Use a sharp knife to cut away the rotten part, and apply crushed charcoal and sulfur powder. Make sure the wound stays dry.

Neck rot: Cut off the rotten part; the remaining stem can be used for stem cuttings. Make sure the wound stays dry.

Fungal infection: Use a sharp knife to cut away the rotten part, apply sulfur powder, then spray the plant with a mixed solution of benlate and mancozeb.

Black rot: Use a clean knife to cut off the infected part, then spray with benlate and apply sulfur powder.