What to Do When a Money Tree Has Root Rot? Detailed Solutions

The money tree is not just a decorative potted plant; its symbolic meaning is also very auspicious. But many people who grow money trees run into the problem of root rot. So what are the causes of money tree root rot? Below, the editor will explain the solutions for money tree root rot.

[Causes of Money Tree Root Rot]

The money tree is a plant that naturally prefers a warm, humid climate with plenty of sunlight. Root rot occurs mainly for the following three reasons:

Cause of money tree root rot: 1. Overwatering. The money tree is fine with potting soil that is slightly moist; by nature it does not like water, but if the potting soil drains poorly and the water quality turns stagnant, root rot will result.

Cause of money tree root rot: 2. Overfertilizing. Overfertilizing a money tree can also cause root rot. This is especially true if a relatively concentrated fertilizer is used before the money tree's roots have developed well; concentrated fertilizer will scorch the plant's root and stem area, causing root rot.

Cause of money tree root rot: 3. Pathogen infection. If you are not careful when watering or when it rains, pathogens may splash onto the money tree plant, which can also cause pathogen infection and lead to money tree root rot.

[Solutions for Money Tree Root Rot]

1. Repot the plant

Generally, the cause of money tree root rot is root rot brought on by watering. The plant needs to be taken out of the pot promptly, some of the old soil shaken off, and the plant placed in a semi-shaded, cool spot to air dry for 1-2 days, then replanted in fresh sandy loam soil. Afterward, the pot must not be too large, and watering must not be too frequent; water when the potting soil is 70 percent dry. Never use a rigid watering schedule; water flexibly. If the root rot is relatively severe, it is best to shake off all the soil, then soak the roots in a 500-times-diluted potassium permanganate or carbendazim solution for 5-10 minutes, rinse once with clean water, then air dry until the root system is dry and replant.

2. Apply charcoal powder

First take the plant out of the flower pot, cut away the rotted tubers and branches and leaves, then apply charcoal powder to the wounds and leave the roots exposed in a warm place. After the wounds dry, bury them in the potting soil and stop watering until spring warmth raises the temperature above 20°C, at which point normal watering can resume, but the amount of water must be small, only enough to keep the potting soil slightly moist.

Although the money tree is a plant from tropical regions, it does not like moisture; high humidity can cause root rot, so attention must be paid to money tree care. If root rot occurs, it must be dealt with as soon as possible.

Renovation Network.