How to rescue an orchid with root rot? First cut off the rotten roots, then disinfect

After a home-grown orchid develops root rot, do not panic, and do not rush to throw it away. It is recommended to first wash the orchid's roots, then cut off the rotten roots, disinfect with potassium permanganate, let it dry, and then plant it in freshly prepared soil. Do not fertilize before it has settled in (acclimated to the pot), and let it recover slowly.

Remedial methods

1. Prune the roots

Dig the orchid out of the soil, knock off the soil on the roots, then gently rinse the roots clean with clean water, use sharp scissors to cut off the dead roots and rotten roots, then disinfect the plant's roots with a potassium permanganate solution or carbendazim to remove the remaining pathogens on them and avoid re-infection.

2. Air-dry the roots in a ventilated place

After cleaning, do not pot it up for care right away; place it in a cool, ventilated spot to air-dry the roots naturally, until the wounds begin to curl. The main purpose of this is to let the orchid's roots lose some moisture, making it easier for the plant to settle in, and it can also speed up wound recovery to a certain extent, making it easier to save.

3. Potting up and care

The most important point in rescuing an orchid after root rot is to change the soil. It is best not to use the original soil; use a growing medium simply mixed from bark, ceramsite, or Kanuma soil (lit. "plant gold stone") to ensure a certain degree of air permeability and drainage, which helps the plant recover after potting. Plant the orchid into the soil and keep it in a semi-shaded place for care, avoiding direct strong light.

4. Never fertilize

Do not fertilize before the orchid has settled in; this point is very important. If too much fertilizer is applied, it will put a greater burden on the orchid's roots and make it difficult for them to grow. At this time the roots have poor vigor, so they should be allowed to recover on their own, drawing nutrients from the soil and recovering slowly; do not be too impatient.