SOS!! Yellowing on stalk tip of lucky bamboo!??!
I recently repotted this guy from its original Home Depot water logged (but thriving - new growth and all!!) into this clay pot with a thin layer of good draining mix (peat, perlite, orchid bark, tropical & succulent mix) at the very bottom and filled the rest with a mix of clay leca balls and (I ran out of leca balls & was desperate!) jacks gritty succulent mix. I’m out of town and my plant sitter sent this video & i screenshotted when my heart dropped - do we snip the yellow tips?! TIA! 🌱🫶🏼
Last watered 1 year ago
14
Best Answer
@Sunnydayz9 so yellowing can be several things or it could be nothing at all. However, am I correct that two separate stalks are turning yellow? That I cause of concern. Often this is the first indicia is going on with the roots. Your “kitchen sink substrate” (I love of jacks gritty mix. And i recently tried using a layer of Ken’s at the bottom of some of my philodendrons —not sure I’m a fan, but I digress) sounds like it has several different components that would improve drainage. However, it’s all about ratio, so even if you add several kinds of amendments, if the ratios are not correct, your substrate may not have sufficient drainage. I see that it was watered today. Was this after the yellow was noticed ? When was it last watered before then? And was that you or the sitter. The reason I ask is because it might explain the “how” it might happened. Often, even with a substrate that has been amended for extra drainage, the substrate can become waterlogged as a result of an improper watering technique that provides more water than the soil can absorb or drain, resulting in an accumulation of water in the pot. When this happens the roots choke from lack of oxygen. A fungal pathogen then attacks the roots, causing them to rot. The plant decaying is connected which roots are rotting. In any event I will post by separate comments both how to insprext and treat for root rot and proper watering technique. If the roots are inspected and the roots are not rotting then we can trouble shoot some more. Please note: time is of the essence with root rot. If a plant can be saved, timely stemming the spread of infection is critical.
I knew you would be able to help, John!! I’m about to walk out the door but have so many answers and even more questions 😅. Yes, two of the stalks starting turning and all of a sudden we’re disturbingly yellow. I did switch to distilled water like you suggested. Poor thing is in some serious shock. I had to chisel through the top rock on the original pot to find it was in a substrate mix just drowning. How it had so much new growth, I have no idea. First watering in new pot from bottom was prob a week or so ago…the decline started when I re-potted. And I changed up everything on the plant..from the substrate mix to going to leca clay balls and having to toss in jacks gritty in a pinch. I just hope I didn’t kill this beauty that was doing pretty dang good in a crappy Home Depot pot & mix. Ugh!
@TexanExpat oh! And yes, unfortunately, it was given a bit of water yesterday. Ahh stressing over this one!
@Sunnydayz9 here are my notes on root rot : Identification and Treatment of Root Rot:
Root rot is a fungal disease triggered by excessive soil moisture, leading to decay in a plant's root system, compromising its ability to absorb nutrients and water. Visible signs such as yellowing leaves, wilting, or sudden multiple areas of discoloration across the plant are key indicators that should raise concerns about potential root rot.
Careful consideration must be given when potentially dealing with root rot. There are two main reasons for this the first is that time is of the essence. The difference between a plant being salvageable, and not is often just a matter of hours, overnight. The second reason is because the the process for diagnosing root rot can in itself be a very stressful event for the plant is kind of like giving an elderly person anesthetic doctors are loathe to do this because an anesthesia can be so harmful or lethal to an elderly person. However, there are clear indicators that an inspection is warranted. Do not hesitate ,
As to the process ,the diagnosis and treatment requires one to take the plant out of the substrate and inspect the roots. Exercise caution and due care here: the disruption caused by root rot and the process of diagnosing and treating it by inspecting the roots can induce shock in the plant, further compromising its health due to the disturbance of its root system. However, given that the diagnosis and treatment is in effect, life-saving, the risk of shock is just one of other dynamics that make root rot such a risky situation.
If waterlogged soil from overwatering is suspected as the cause of root rot, consider these signs and steps:
Signs Indicating Root Rot:
* Yellowing Leaves: Not just a single yellow leaf, but simultaneous yellowing in various parts of the plant may indicate an issue.
* Soggy Soil: Detectable dampness or unpleasant odor in the soil.
* Stunted Growth: Lack of new growth or reduced vitality.
* Leaf Drop: Premature falling of leaves despite proper care.
Root Inspection:
* Careful Examination: Gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots.
* Look for Symptoms: Healthy roots are firm and white; roots affected by rot will appear mushy, dark, or discolored.
Treatment:
* Trimming Damaged Roots: Use sterilized tools to remove affected areas, considering peroxide as a disinfectant. The common recommendation is to dilute hydrogen peroxide to a concentration of around 3% (mixing 1 part 35% hydrogen peroxide with 11 parts water) for safe and effective use in treating root rot in plants.
* Repotting: Utilize fresh, well-draining soil and a clean pot, trimming healthy roots if necessary.
* Antifungal Treatment: Apply an appropriate fungicide designed for root rot, or consider using peroxide as an additional disinfectant following package instructions. There are many fungicides that work here however, I’m not aware of any that are “ready to use.” Ready to use on sides are often made for your application. Here you need something as a soil drench you can buy concentrates such as bonide revitalize a copper based fungicide concentrate.
Aftercare:
* Monitoring Yellowing: While a single yellow leaf might not signify root issues, multiple simultaneous yellowing areas may prompt root inspection.
* Watering Adjustments: Revise watering practices, allowing soil to partially dry between waterings to prevent future occurrences.
* Optimal Conditions: Ensure adequate light and airflow, preventing excessive moisture buildup.
* Regular Observation: Monitor the plant's health closely, providing necessary care based on its recovery progress.
By promptly identifying signs, treating affected roots, and incorporating preventive measures like peroxide as a disinfectant, you can aid your plant's recovery from root rot while adjusting care practices to avoid its recurrence.
Root rot is a fungal disease triggered by excessive soil moisture, leading to decay in a plant's root system, compromising its ability to absorb nutrients and water. Visible signs such as yellowing leaves, wilting, or sudden multiple areas of discoloration across the plant are key indicators that should raise concerns about potential root rot.
Careful consideration must be given when potentially dealing with root rot. There are two main reasons for this the first is that time is of the essence. The difference between a plant being salvageable, and not is often just a matter of hours, overnight. The second reason is because the the process for diagnosing root rot can in itself be a very stressful event for the plant is kind of like giving an elderly person anesthetic doctors are loathe to do this because an anesthesia can be so harmful or lethal to an elderly person. However, there are clear indicators that an inspection is warranted. Do not hesitate ,
As to the process ,the diagnosis and treatment requires one to take the plant out of the substrate and inspect the roots. Exercise caution and due care here: the disruption caused by root rot and the process of diagnosing and treating it by inspecting the roots can induce shock in the plant, further compromising its health due to the disturbance of its root system. However, given that the diagnosis and treatment is in effect, life-saving, the risk of shock is just one of other dynamics that make root rot such a risky situation.
If waterlogged soil from overwatering is suspected as the cause of root rot, consider these signs and steps:
Signs Indicating Root Rot:
* Yellowing Leaves: Not just a single yellow leaf, but simultaneous yellowing in various parts of the plant may indicate an issue.
* Soggy Soil: Detectable dampness or unpleasant odor in the soil.
* Stunted Growth: Lack of new growth or reduced vitality.
* Leaf Drop: Premature falling of leaves despite proper care.
Root Inspection:
* Careful Examination: Gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots.
* Look for Symptoms: Healthy roots are firm and white; roots affected by rot will appear mushy, dark, or discolored.
Treatment:
* Trimming Damaged Roots: Use sterilized tools to remove affected areas, considering peroxide as a disinfectant. The common recommendation is to dilute hydrogen peroxide to a concentration of around 3% (mixing 1 part 35% hydrogen peroxide with 11 parts water) for safe and effective use in treating root rot in plants.
* Repotting: Utilize fresh, well-draining soil and a clean pot, trimming healthy roots if necessary.
* Antifungal Treatment: Apply an appropriate fungicide designed for root rot, or consider using peroxide as an additional disinfectant following package instructions. There are many fungicides that work here however, I’m not aware of any that are “ready to use.” Ready to use on sides are often made for your application. Here you need something as a soil drench you can buy concentrates such as bonide revitalize a copper based fungicide concentrate.
Aftercare:
* Monitoring Yellowing: While a single yellow leaf might not signify root issues, multiple simultaneous yellowing areas may prompt root inspection.
* Watering Adjustments: Revise watering practices, allowing soil to partially dry between waterings to prevent future occurrences.
* Optimal Conditions: Ensure adequate light and airflow, preventing excessive moisture buildup.
* Regular Observation: Monitor the plant's health closely, providing necessary care based on its recovery progress.
By promptly identifying signs, treating affected roots, and incorporating preventive measures like peroxide as a disinfectant, you can aid your plant's recovery from root rot while adjusting care practices to avoid its recurrence.
@Sunnydayz9 Proper watering technique
I find that when it comes to watering plants it’s helpful to conceptualize the undertaking as based on “technique. “
Consider tennis: what defines a good forearm technique? It involves a strong, controlled stroke, precise ball contact, weight transfer, and racket speed for power. Success is evident in accuracy, speed, and spin.
So, what defines good watering technique?
For houseplants, it starts by gauging the right watering time using soil dryness, weight, or plant-specific cues. Once timed accurately, it's about uniformly hydrating the soil without overdoing it.
Success lies in well-moistened soil, avoiding saucer water buildup, and ensuring even substrate hydration.
Assessing Watering Needs:
* Observation:
* Check soil surface dryness and overall plant appearance.
* Feel the soil's top inch; dryness signals watering necessity.
* Weight Test:
* Lift the pot; lighter weight than usual indicates dry soil.
Watering Process:
* Choosing the Watering Can:
* Pick a can fitting for the plant's size, holding around 2 cups of water.
* Use a can with a narrow, long spout for controlled pouring.
* Methodical Watering:
* Position the spout under foliage, pour steadily around the pot.
* Aim for consistency, allowing even substrate soaking.
* Observation and Drainage:
* Monitor drainage; seeping from holes signals sufficient moisture.
* Pause if drainage precedes complete watering, allowing excess to drain.
Enhancing Technique:
* Soil Probing with Chopsticks:
* Probe soil before watering with chopsticks to address compaction issues.
* Soil compaction, despite optimal care, restricts water and air movement.
* Probing with chopsticks helps loosen compacted areas, promoting better water distribution and root development.
Soil compaction can persist despite best substrate care. Probing with chopsticks serves as an essential measure to mitigate long-term compaction concerns, ensuring better plant health.
I find that when it comes to watering plants it’s helpful to conceptualize the undertaking as based on “technique. “
Consider tennis: what defines a good forearm technique? It involves a strong, controlled stroke, precise ball contact, weight transfer, and racket speed for power. Success is evident in accuracy, speed, and spin.
So, what defines good watering technique?
For houseplants, it starts by gauging the right watering time using soil dryness, weight, or plant-specific cues. Once timed accurately, it's about uniformly hydrating the soil without overdoing it.
Success lies in well-moistened soil, avoiding saucer water buildup, and ensuring even substrate hydration.
Assessing Watering Needs:
* Observation:
* Check soil surface dryness and overall plant appearance.
* Feel the soil's top inch; dryness signals watering necessity.
* Weight Test:
* Lift the pot; lighter weight than usual indicates dry soil.
Watering Process:
* Choosing the Watering Can:
* Pick a can fitting for the plant's size, holding around 2 cups of water.
* Use a can with a narrow, long spout for controlled pouring.
* Methodical Watering:
* Position the spout under foliage, pour steadily around the pot.
* Aim for consistency, allowing even substrate soaking.
* Observation and Drainage:
* Monitor drainage; seeping from holes signals sufficient moisture.
* Pause if drainage precedes complete watering, allowing excess to drain.
Enhancing Technique:
* Soil Probing with Chopsticks:
* Probe soil before watering with chopsticks to address compaction issues.
* Soil compaction, despite optimal care, restricts water and air movement.
* Probing with chopsticks helps loosen compacted areas, promoting better water distribution and root development.
Soil compaction can persist despite best substrate care. Probing with chopsticks serves as an essential measure to mitigate long-term compaction concerns, ensuring better plant health.
@Sunnydayz9 don’t feel bad about it. There is a steep learning curve. I had killed so many many many many many many plants. When I first started out if my plants had had situational awareness, I’m sure they would’ve given me an epithet along the lines of John, the destroyer or something like that lol. I would wait to buy expensive plants so that you’re not practicing on things that cost a lot of money. If I did not recommend some resources to get you started before let me know and I can do that the thing about substrate is that the composition has to be very carefully considered, and when you have a mishmash of stuff, it’s unlikely that it’s going to function the way it’s designed because the design is mishmash you know what I mean? As to LECA You are to be commended for such a bold enterprise the first time I looked at Leica. It made my head spin. It’s only within the last couple months that I have tried using it and let me tell you it’s in tears as one of my philodendron fuzzy petioles is a goner given it so dehydrated. Using Internet substrate like LECA it’s called semi Hydro cultivation. I have been doing semi Hydro with Lon for about a year now but I knew that there was a lot that I did not understand. I just recently found a very informative website from a blogger called The LECA addict which I will provide the link for below if you want to do semi Hydro, you can avoid a lot of the pitfalls that I learned the hard way by familiarizing yourself with this websites information. For now I would just recommend sticking to Fox Farms potting mix either the happy frog or the ocean floor in adding up to 15 per unless it’s succulent then I would add 35% per light and when I say what I mean is amend it so that the total composition is about 35% or 15%, respectively if you have any other questions about wanting to do something more than that, I’m always happy to help or the people on here. Happy to help. There is a website called repot me and they do custom potting mixes for every kind of plant if that’s your thing, I would just, be more deliberate if you decide you want to start mixing your potting mixes I’ve been trying to find a good resource for understanding substrate, but I haven’t come upon that my knowledge is because I read a lot here and there Try not to stress out too much about this. I got the house plants as a treatment for PTSD. Plants are supposed to be something that helped produce an anxiety and alleviate stress and you’re gonna have plants die on you every once in a while especially when you’re getting new to this, it is what it is try not to fret about it and sometimes learning requires you to do it the hard way, but I’ve given you the information if you have the time to try and salvage the plant if not, then the next plant will be better off for the sacrifice that this one madebut I have my fingers crossed for you
@Sunnydayz9 https://www.lecaaddict.com/. oh, lastly, some plants are fluid sensitive and should not be in a potting mix that contains perlite as this can exacerbate fluoride poisoning Justino, including Lucky bamboo or such plant other examples include spider plants and peace lilies. For these types of plants I would use pumice which you can get on Amazon. It’s not as convenient but it’s not that difficult to get a hold of, I just had to get on Amazon because they don’t carry at the nurseries here
@TexanExpat you have given me hope, yet! Fortunately (for my wallet) my investments have mostly been in substrate mixes, planters & setup. Unfortunately, for my brown thumb and beginners knowledge, I’ve watched a few really neat, happy, thriving plants die on me! 😂😅 I appreciate the detail you provide so much - I’m eager to take it all to in as quickly as possible but it’s all a learning curve, right?? I am 3.5 years alcohol free and have found I will always have to find an outlet for addictive tendencies. This is the one ‘hobby (ha!!)’ I’ve found that has given as much back to me as I’ve put in. I’m going to have to get out my notepad to wrap my head around everything you’ve sent. I can’t thank you enough!! Truly. Not many folks take the time to explain why the plant may be reacting the way it is. Appreciate you, my friend! Wishing you a very happy new year!! 🌱✨
@Sunnydayz9 I’m very glad you found something to help you take back control of your life. If you read people’s profiles it’s not uncommon to see others who have done that with houseplants too. Read Daryl Cheng’s The New Plant Parent —he’s an engineer and writes very well; no one else applies the precision of engineers mind to houseplant care. Look into lechuza self watering planters. Watering issues become mostly moot with lechuza.
@TexanExpat okay - I’m ready for surgery…turns out there wasn’t a ton of water at the bottom…gently pulled it out…what do I do now?! It seems healthy but the two yellow soft nodes are the ones with new growth! 😭 help, please!
@TexanExpat should also mention it smells fine - free of root rot - but is this algae making the roots so orange?! Or the leca clay balls?! Ahhh!
@TexanExpat I made an executive decision 😂😅 - unlike my Libra traits. New, minimal substrate and I stuck with leca. I cut new growth and stuck them in these lil prop tubes. Any tips, much appreciated. Fingies crossed & thanks for hanging for the journey!
@Sunnydayz9 oh, I like how that looks. It looks good lucky bamboo like that as often just grown in water, so I’m sure it’ll be more than happy to have the structural support of the LECA. Let me know and you have to water that I just lost my fuzzy pedal philodendron that I grew from well two of them that I had grown from 4 inch pots and they were almost 4 feet tall. Just dehydrated on me I didn’t take into account Clay pellets might not hold moisture as long as upon it, which was an oversight. But the plant was completely dehydrated like a week and a half which is kind of crazy.