Root Rot on anthurium
What's Happening
Root rot in Anthurium occurs when epiphytic aerial roots remain in waterlogged, poorly aerated soil for 7+ days. Standard potting soil retains too much moisture and compacts over time, creating anaerobic conditions that promote Pythium and Phytophthora fungal pathogens. Anthurium roots evolved for attachment to tree bark in tropical canopies, requiring constant oxygen exchange and rapid drainage—conditions incompatible with dense peat-based mixes.
How to Fix It
- 1
Unpot immediately: Remove plant from container to inspect root system
- 2
Trim rotted tissue: Cut ALL black, mushy, or foul-smelling roots with sterilized scissors
- 3
Sterilize remaining roots: Soak in 3% hydrogen peroxide solution (1:4 with water) for 20 minutes
- 4
Repot in dry mix: Use fresh, chunky aroid mix in appropriately sized pot
- 5
Recovery environment: Place in bright indirect light with 70-80% humidity; withhold water for 7 days, then water sparingly
How to Prevent It
Use aroid-specific chunky mix (50% orchid bark, 30% perlite, 20% peat/charcoal); water only when top 2-3 inches of soil are dry; ensure pot has multiple drainage holes; maintain 60-80% humidity to reduce water needs; bottom-water only when necessary to control saturation.