How To Fix Root Rot

Root rot is a disease that Phalaenopsis orchids succumb to when they have been subjected to too much water. Sometimes orchids are purchased that are already suffering from root rot, but the signs of the disease are subtle. Because root rot is the most common disease with orchids, it is important for orchid owners to know the signs so that the disease can be stopped quickly.  

What are the signs of root rot? 

• Buds that drop from a Phalaenopsis orchid for no apparent reason. 
• Listless or floppy leaves. 
• The lack of blooms after purchasing an orchid. 
• Phalaenopsis orchid leaves should feel strong and tough. If they feel withered or soft, you should suspect root rot.  
• Exposed roots that are withered or brittle instead of plump and active. 
• Phalaenopsis orchids that are planted in normal potting soil are more susceptible to root rot. 
• Black, squishy roots are an absolute sign of root rot for the Phalaenopsis orchid. 

Root decay versus root rot 

 Dark, slimy roots that fall apart to the touch are never a good sign for your plant. While symptoms that appear out of nowhere may seem to have a cause related to disease, in most cases root decay is caused by growing conditions rather than disease. 

The two main diseases that cause technical “root rot” are called Pythium and Phytophthora. Both are serious pests in the plant world. 

However, as mentioned before, most cases of root decay are not caused by a disease but by growing conditions. To remedy root decay issues, simply alter your watering routine, repot into rooting media that has better drainage, or move the plant to an area with better air circulation and lighting. You may want to trim away decayed roots that are dark in color and mushy. Keep in mind that you cannot reverse root decay — you can only change the growing conditions of your orchid to encourage better growth. 

How to avoid root rot in Phalaenopsis orchids

If your orchid is in the wrong potting media, then repotting it using proper orchid material is crucial. It is also important to never let orchids sit in water.  

When watering a Phalaenopsis orchid, let the water drain entirely through the orchid container. The amount of water used is not the problem, but watering too frequently will cause root rot, your plant’s roots need some time to dry between waterings.  

Just Add Ice has the perfect solution for watering Phalaenopsis orchids. All you need is three ice cubes for your orchid once a week for proper watering. We offer a free desktop watering calendar that can be personalized for your watering schedule.