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Plant enthusiasts understand that watering isn't just about frequency—it's about knowing when to stop. Overwatering is a common mistake, particularly for plants that only need weekly hydration. While you might believe you're helping by giving your plant extra water, this can actually harm it.
In fact, overwatering can lead to a condition known as root rot. Here's how to identify it and a simple method to potentially save your struggling plant using an item you likely already have at home.
Understanding Root Rot
Root rot is precisely as it sounds. It can result from two situations, both related to water, as explained by Gardening Know How:
Excessive watering over time can deprive a plant's roots of oxygen, leading to decay—which may spread to and destroy healthy roots.
A dormant fungus in the soil can activate when overwatered, causing further damage.
A plant suffering from root rot will show signs like wilting and yellowing. If you remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots, you might detect a swampy or rotten egg-like odor. The affected roots will appear black and may crumble upon touch.
Using Hydrogen Peroxide to Treat Root Rot
While not all plants with root rot can be rescued, hydrogen peroxide offers a potential solution. It eliminates the bacteria causing the rot and introduces additional oxygen into the soil, aiding the plant in developing fresh, healthy roots, as noted by Molly Williams at Apartment Therapy.
Avoid applying undiluted hydrogen peroxide directly to the roots. Instead, mix one part 3% hydrogen peroxide with two parts water, and transfer the solution into a watering can or spray bottle. This mixture can be used while the plant remains in its pot or after it has been removed.
Here’s the method for watering the plant while it’s still in the pot, as suggested by Williams:
Allow the soil to dry completely. Next, thoroughly water the plant with the hydrogen peroxide solution. Repeat this process until you notice an improvement in the plant’s condition. If you’re uncertain about the health of the roots, remove the plant from the pot and inspect them. Healthy roots will be firm and have a whitish hue.
For treating the plant after removing it from the pot, Williams recommends:
Carefully remove all the potting soil from around the roots. Once the roots are fully exposed, either spray or pour the hydrogen peroxide solution over the entire root ball. Repot the plant in fresh, moist potting mix. Allow the soil to dry before watering the plant again.
Although it may not always succeed, if you're on the verge of discarding a plant with root rot because it seems beyond recovery, consider trying the hydrogen peroxide solution as a last resort.
