Is your Sansevieria rotting and you don’t know what to do? Discover expert advice to save your plant and bring it back to health.
The Sansevieria it is one of the most loved plants for decorating home interiors, thanks to its elegant charm and resistance. However, even a robust plant like this can run into problems, and the root rot it is certainly among the most insidious. This condition, caused by excess water or fungi present in the soil, can quickly lead to deterioration of the roots and compromise the health of the entire plant.
Noticing yellowing, mushy leaves or an unpleasant odor from the soil is the first warning sign. But don’t be afraid, with the right precautions it is possible to save your Sansevieria. In this guide you will discover how to recognize the symptoms, intervene effectively and prevent future problems. Caring for a Sansevieria is not difficult, but it requires attention to detail to ensure healthy, lush growth. Let’s see together how to do it!
What is Sansevieria root rot and how to recognize it
Il root rot it is a disorder caused mainly by excess moisture in the soiloften accompanied by the presence of fungi. These organisms attack weakened roots, preventing them from absorbing water and nutrients. Over time, the roots turn into a soft, dark mass, leading to the death of the plant.
The first signs of rot appear under the soil, making it difficult to immediately identify the problem. However, there are some visible signs you can recognize:
- The leaves are starting to yellow and wilt.
- The ground gives off a unpleasant smell of decomposition.
- Pulling the plant out of the pot reveals soft, dark and often drooping roots.
These symptoms are clear indicators that your Sansevieria is suffering. If the problem is not addressed promptly, it could lead to the complete deterioration of the plant. But don’t panic! With the right approach, it is possible to save it even in critical situations.
How to intervene to save your Sansevieria
Act promptly it is the key to preventing root rot from spreading further. Here are the essential steps to save your plant:
- Remove the plant from the pot and check the condition of the roots.
- Cut with sterilized scissors all rotten rootsmaking sure to eliminate the soft and dark parts.
- Gently wash remaining roots under running water to remove infected soil.
- Apply a natural fungicide such as neem oil or cinnamon to prevent further infections.
- Prepare a new vase with fresh, well-draining and sandy soil.
- Repot it, avoiding watering it immediately. Wait at least two days before resuming watering.
These steps allow the plant to regenerate and prevent the problem from returning. Remember: Healthy roots are critical to recovery.
The main mistakes to avoid
Before analyzing how to prevent root rot, it is important to know the most common mistakes that favor this condition:
- Watering too often, even when the soil is still moist.
- Use a pot that is too large, which retains too much humidity.
- Use heavy or old soil, which suffocates the roots.
Avoiding these mistakes is the first step to keep your Sansevieria healthy in the long term.
How to prevent root rot
Prevention is always better than cure. By following a few simple rules, you can prevent your Sansevieria from suffering from root rot again:
- Check the soil before watering. Insert a finger or a stick to check if it is dry.
- Choose a specific soil for succulents and a pot with drainage holes.
- Place your Sansevieria in a well-lit place but away from direct light, to encourage uniform drying of the soil.
Caring for Sansevieria is not complicated, but it requires attention to detail. Adequate prevention ensures that your plant remains healthy and thriving for years.
The Sansevieria is a resistant and decorative plantbut she too can suffer if neglected. Root rot is a serious problem, but with the right interventions and a little patience, it is possible to recover even the most difficult situations.
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