crown rot on African Violet
Quick answer
If your African Violet has crown rot, the most likely cause is: African violet crown rot (Erwinia chrysanthemi) thrives at soil moisture above 70% field capacity combined with temperatures below 65°F — the pathogen produces pectate lyase enzymes that dissolve middle lamella between plant cells, causing tissue maceration in the rosette crown within 5-10 days.
Start here:
- 1. 1. Stop all overhead watering immediately at first sign of mushy crown base
- 2. 2. Remove plant from pot, inspect roots — black/mushy roots indicate rot
Why African Violet gets crown rot
African violet crown rot (Erwinia chrysanthemi) thrives at soil moisture above 70% field capacity combined with temperatures below 65°F — the pathogen produces pectate lyase enzymes that dissolve middle lamella between plant cells, causing tissue maceration in the rosette crown within 5-10 days.
How to reverse crown rot on African Violet
- 1
1. Stop all overhead watering immediately at first sign of mushy crown base
- 2
2. Remove plant from pot, inspect roots — black/mushy roots indicate rot
- 3
3. Excise all affected tissue with sterile blade, dust cut surfaces with cinnamon (natural antifungal)
- 4
4. Repot in fresh African violet mix, water only from bottom going forward
- 5
5. Isolate plant from other houseplants for 4 weeks during recovery
Keep crown rot off this African Violet
Water African violets from the bottom only — place pot in 1 inch of room-temperature water for 20-30 minutes, then discard excess. Maintain 65-75°F ambient temperature. Never let pots sit in standing water beyond 30 minutes.