root rot on Ficus Elastica
Quick answer
If your Ficus Elastica has root rot, the most likely cause is: Root rot (typically Pythium or Phytophthora) is caused by anaerobic conditions in waterlogged soil. Rubber plants are especially vulnerable when kept in oversized pots or rigid 'app-scheduled' watering routines. Symptoms include mushy stems, yellowing lower leaves, and a foul odor from the soil.
Start here:
- 1. Surgical pruning: Unpot the plant and cut away all black, mushy, or smelly roots with sterilized shears.
- 2. Sterilize: Soak the remaining root ball in a 1:3 hydrogen peroxide/water solution for 10 minutes.
Why Ficus Elastica gets root rot
Ficus elastica
Root rot (typically Pythium or Phytophthora) is caused by anaerobic conditions in waterlogged soil. Rubber plants are especially vulnerable when kept in oversized pots or rigid 'app-scheduled' watering routines. Symptoms include mushy stems, yellowing lower leaves, and a foul odor from the soil.
How to reverse root rot on Ficus Elastica
- 1
Surgical pruning: Unpot the plant and cut away all black, mushy, or smelly roots with sterilized shears.
- 2
Sterilize: Soak the remaining root ball in a 1:3 hydrogen peroxide/water solution for 10 minutes.
- 3
Downsize pot: Repot into a smaller container (only 1-2 inches larger than the remaining root mass) with a fresh, airy aroid mix.
- 4
Wait to water: Do not water the plant for at least 7 days after repotting to allow roots to heal.
Keep root rot off this Ficus Elastica
Never water on a schedule; always use the finger test. Use terracotta pots to help moisture evaporate. Ensure the pot size matches the root system, not the plant height.