root rot on Pachira Aquatica
Quick answer
If your Pachira Aquatica has root rot, the most likely cause is: Anaerobic soil conditions from chronic saturation deprive roots of oxygen, enabling fungal pathogens (Pythium, Phytophthora) to cause root decay; exacerbated by oversized pots, compacted soil, or pots without drainage holes
Start here:
- 1. Remove plant from pot immediately and rinse roots under lukewarm water to assess damage
- 2. Trim all black, mushy, or foul-smelling roots with sterilized shears, cutting to healthy white tissue
Why Pachira Aquatica gets root rot
Anaerobic soil conditions from chronic saturation deprive roots of oxygen, enabling fungal pathogens (Pythium, Phytophthora) to cause root decay; exacerbated by oversized pots, compacted soil, or pots without drainage holes
How to reverse root rot on Pachira Aquatica
- 1
Remove plant from pot immediately and rinse roots under lukewarm water to assess damage
- 2
Trim all black, mushy, or foul-smelling roots with sterilized shears, cutting to healthy white tissue
- 3
Treat remaining roots with copper fungicide or 3% hydrogen peroxide solution (1:4 dilution)
- 4
Repot in fresh well-draining mix: 50% potting soil, 30% perlite, 20% orchid bark
- 5
Withhold water for 1-2 weeks post-repot to allow cuts to callus; resume when top 2-3 inches are dry
Keep root rot off this Pachira Aquatica
Water only when top 2-3 inches of soil are completely dry (use finger test or moisture meter); use pots with drainage holes only 1-2 inches wider than root ball; maintain 40-60% humidity; reduce watering frequency to every 2-3 weeks in winter