Yellow Leaves From Overwatering on begonia
What's Happening
Root oxygen deprivation from prolonged soil saturation (7+ days) creates anaerobic conditions that trigger pythium and fusarium proliferation. Begonia's fibrous root system lacks aerenchyma tissue for oxygen transport, making it particularly susceptible to hypoxic root death. Waterlogged rhizomes develop black, mushy tissue that cannot recover once compromised.
How to Fix It
- 1
Unpot plant and inspect roots - healthy roots are white/firm, rotting roots are black/mushy with foul odor
- 2
Trim ALL rotting root tissue with sterilized scissors until only firm white tissue remains
- 3
Sterilize remaining roots in 3% hydrogen peroxide solution (1:1 with water) for 20 minutes
- 4
Allow roots to callus on paper towel in shade for 24-48 hours
- 5
Repot in fresh well-draining mix (50% peat/perlite) in appropriately sized pot
- 6
Resume watering only after 7 days, then only when soil is bone dry
What You'll Need
How to Prevent It
Water only when top 2 inches of soil are completely dry to the touch. Use terracotta pots for natural moisture wicking. Ensure pot has multiple drainage holes. Maintain 50-60% humidity via pebble trays rather than misting to reduce soil moisture needs.