Root Rot on bird of paradise
What's Happening
Root rot in Bird of Paradise develops from prolonged overwatering or poor drainage creating anaerobic soil conditions. Fungal pathogens like Pythium and Fusarium colonize oxygen-deprived rhizomes, causing necrotic tissue that appears black, mushy, and emits foul odor. The plant's fibrous root system is highly susceptible to rot when waterlogged.
How to Fix It
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1. Gently remove plant from pot and rinse roots under lukewarm water to expose all tissue
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2. Inspect roots: healthy are firm/white; rotted are black/mushy with foul smell
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3. Sterilize pruning shears with alcohol; trim ALL rotted roots flush to healthy tissue
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4. Soak remaining roots in 3% hydrogen peroxide solution (1:4 dilution) for 20-30 minutes to sterilize
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5. Repot in fresh well-draining mix (50% potting soil, 30% perlite, 20% orchid bark) with multiple drainage holes
How to Prevent It
Water only when top 2-3 inches of soil are dry; use pots with drainage holes and empty saucers promptly; maintain gritty, aerated soil mixes with 30%+ perlite/orchid bark.