How to Fix Root Rot

Learn How to Treat Plants Affected by Root Rot

What is Root Rot?

Root rot is a common issue in agriculture and horticulture, and can plague even the most experienced growers. It can pose an especially serious challenge for hydroponic growers due to the lack of soil or other growing medias. Root rot is a fungal disease caused predominantly by Pythium spp., and is often referred to as water mold. There are several factors that make plants more susceptible to root rot such as overwatering; lack of dissolved oxygen in the root zone; high humidity or constant warm temperatures; and lack of light in the growing environment. If root rot is left untreated, it could ultimately kill your plants, or at a minimum, could severely hinder the plant’s ability to absorb water and nutrients – resulting in poor growth and low yields.

What Does Root Rot Look Like?

If you notice that your plants are starting to look unhealthy, with wilting, yellow, or blotchy leaves, check the roots, if possible with your grow media. Signs of root rot include mushy stems, and soft, dark roots instead of firm, white roots. You may also notice that the soil has a rotten smell, which is a good indicator of root rot.

How to Fix Root Rot

If your plant has root rot, it will be unable to absorb water and nutrients that it needs to survive. Therefore, you need to act immediately to increase the chance of survival once you notice the indicators or root rot.

• Start by rinsing the affected roots under clean water. You will have to trim the affected roots with a pair of clean sharp scissors.
• It is also recommended to prune the deficient brown or yellow leaves. Reducing the overall size of the plant may help the chances of survival as your root system will no longer be strong enough to support the entire plant.
• Thoroughly clean the grow system and clean or replace growing media, and add a fresh nutrient mix that includes Hygrozymeand beneficial microbes. The enzymes in Hygrozyme continually work to break down dead root matter which prevents root rot from further developing.
• Improve aeration:
  • High beneficial microbe activity improves aeration within the root zone. Create an environment that allows for beneficial microbes to thrive by adding Hygrozymeto your feed. The enzymes in Hygrozyme convert dead root matter into simple sugars for beneficial microbes to consume.
  • Use air pumps, air stones, or air diffusers.
  • For soil, increase drainage. Be careful to not overwater.
• Remember to check your plant for new growth development for the next few days. The brown or yellow leaves will never turn green again, but new leaves should be green and healthy. New roots should be white and firm.

How to Prevent Root Rot

Since it is extremely difficult to reverse the effects of root rot for plants, preventing root rot with the use of Hygrozyme as part of your feeding regime is a smart investment and will act as insurance for your plants.

Remember, the most important part of your crop starts with the roots. If they’re not clean and strong, your plants will not be able to reach their full genetic potential.

Watch the video below to learn how Hygrozyme’s powerful blend of concentrated, beneficial enzymes can help you prevent root rot by accelerating the breakdown of dead root matter: