What causes root rot in orchids?

Orchids are a traditional flower originating in our country, and together with "plum, bamboo, and chrysanthemum" they are known as the "Four Gentlemen" among flowers. Chinese orchids are simple and elegant, and fit the Chinese character very well, so some people grow orchids at home to express their own noble character. But if a beginner grows them, some problems are unavoidable, and root rot is one of the more troublesome ones. Root rot not only makes orchids grow weakly, but in serious cases can also cause the orchid to die. So what are the causes of orchid root rot? Let us take a look below.

1. Poor growing environment

1. Light

There are many kinds of orchids; Chinese orchids alone include Cymbidium goeringii (spring orchid), Cymbidium faberi (Faber's cymbidium), and Cymbidium ensifolium (sword-leaf cymbidium), and different orchids have different sunlight needs, but most need to be guaranteed more than 4 hours of light. If light is insufficient or the light is dim, the orchid plant's photosynthesis is weak, and the potting soil does not dry easily, so water stays for a long time and affects root growth.

2. Ventilation

Orchids' need for ventilation is all about being just right, that is, ventilation should be neither too good nor too poor. Without ventilation, the growing environment is too stuffy and hot, watering does not dry easily, the roots' respiration weakens, and the roots become swollen from being soaked in water for a long time; with too much ventilation, the water in the pot is quickly blown dry, and if water is not replenished in time, the water stored in the roots slowly runs out and they gradually dry out.

3. Humidity

Orchids' requirement for air humidity is the same as for ventilation: it is also about a just-right humidity range. The temperature and humidity at the roots both need to be kept in a relatively stable state. If it is too dry or too wet, the orchid may develop root rot.

From this it can be seen that there are quite a few causes of orchid root rot. In the growing environment alone there are three factors that can lead to orchid root rot. In fact, root rot of this kind is mostly caused by growers not knowing enough about orchids' growth habits. This is a fairly common error that should not really happen, because since one has chosen to grow orchids, one should first learn about their growth habits, yet many people still fail to do this.

2. Watering

Watering orchids should be based on the wetness or dryness of the potting soil and the temperature changes of the four seasons, choosing different watering methods to ensure the potting soil is not too dry or too wet. In addition, when the temperature is too low or too high, watering should be stopped in time to prevent the orchid from developing root rot due to cold damage or heat damage.

3. Fertilizing

Orchids have fleshy roots, and the roots store a large amount of water, so they cannot absorb fertilizer at high concentration. Especially when the roots have wounds, the roots will suffer fertilizer damage and develop root rot. Therefore, when fertilizing, apply thin fertilizer frequently. In addition, when using fermented organic fertilizer or slow-release fertilizer, do not place it too close to the roots, to avoid root rot.

4. Impact of pests and diseases

Pests and diseases can also threaten orchid roots. Usually when facing pests and diseases we only consider control measures and often do not check whether the roots have been affected, but in fact this is also necessary. If root rot appears, the plant should be removed from the pot in time for handling.

The above are several causes of orchid root rot compiled by Qinnong Net for everyone. It can be seen that although orchids look rather plain, there are still many key points to growing them, and a little carelessness can lead to root rot and other problems. This also fits rather well with the Chinese character: plain in appearance, yet with extremely high pursuits and a meticulous attitude toward life.