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cannabis root rot

Cannabis root rot is a common plant disease caused by various fungi such as Pythiumor Fusarium. It mainly occurs in excessively moist or poorly aerated soils and causes the roots to rot and die. The disease weakens the entire plant, reduces yields and, in the worst case, can lead to death. It is essential for growers to recognise and treat root rot at an early stage to ensure the health of the plants.

Recognising cannabis root rot: Interpret signs early

The first symptoms of root rot are often subtle, so attention is required. Visible signs may include

  • Yellow or wilted leaves despite sufficient nutrients.
  • Slow growth or growth arrest of the plant.
  • Weak or unstable plant structure.
  • When digging up the roots: Brown, slimy or rotten roots instead of white, healthy roots.

A foul odour in the soil or water reservoir can also indicate root rot. Regular inspection of the plants and their root system is the key to being able to act in good time.

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Causes of cannabis root rot: How it happens

The main cause of root rot is excess moisture. Waterlogging in pots, poor drainage or a permanently excessive water level in hydroponic systems create an ideal environment for fungi and bacteria. Other risk factors:

  1. Poor ventilation: lack of oxygen in the root area.
  2. Over-fertilisation: Too many nutrients can destabilise the soil environment.
  3. Contaminated soil or water: Unclean substrate or water sources can introduce pathogens.
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Treating cannabis root rot: How to save your plants

If you notice root rot, you need to act quickly. Here are the steps for treatment:

  1. Repot the plant: Remove the plant from the contaminated substrate and carefully rinse the roots with clean water.
  2. Remove damaged roots: Cut off brown or rotten parts of the roots with sterile scissors.
  3. Fungicides or biological agents: Use products such as Trichoderma or hydrogen peroxide to kill any remaining pathogens.
  4. Create improved conditions: Ensure good drainage, adequate ventilation and avoid waterlogging.

Preventing root rot: tips for healthy plants

Effective prevention is the best way to keep your cannabis plants healthy and prevent root rot from developing in the first place. Here are the most important measures you can take:

1. optimise drainage and substrate choice

Good drainage is crucial to avoid waterlogging. Use pots with adequate drainage holes and fill the soil with a layer of coarse material such as expanded clay, perlite or gravel. A well-aerated substrate that retains moisture but doesn't stay too wet is ideal. Mixtures with coco fibre or peat can be a good choice as they promote aeration.

2. watering correctly

Only water your plants when the substrate is slightly dry on the surface. Constantly watering "too much" is one of the most common causes of root rot. Especially in hydroponics, you should make sure that the water levels are set correctly and that sufficient oxygen reaches the roots.

3. improve aeration in the root area

Oxygen is vital for the roots. Use aeration pots such as fabric pots or air pots to promote air exchange in the root area. In hydroponic systems, you can use additional oxygen pumps to increase the oxygen content in the water.

4. use mycorrhizal fungi and soil bacteria

Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with the roots and protect them from pathogenic fungi. Similarly, beneficial soil bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis can help keep harmful organisms at bay. These additives strengthen your plant's microbiome and make it more resistant to disease.

5 Ensure sterility and hygiene

A clean growing environment is essential to prevent root rot. Sterilise your tools, pots and trays regularly, especially when repotting plants or taking cuttings. Also make sure that water sources are clean and free from contamination.

6. fertilise correctly

Over-fertilising can weaken the root system and increase the risk of root rot. Stick to recommended fertiliser levels and make sure the pH of the water or substrate is optimal (usually between 5.5 and 6.5 for cannabis). An incorrect pH can block the absorption of nutrients and stress the plant's immune system.

7. control environmental conditions

Monitor the temperature and humidity in your grow room. High humidity and lack of air circulation encourage the growth of fungi and bacteria. Install fans and ensure good air movement.

8. regular inspection of the plants

Inspect the plants and their root system regularly. An early look at possible problems such as colour changes or unpleasant odours can help you to intervene in good time. Prevention also means proactively looking for weak points before they get worse.

FAZIT

The combination of well thought-out irrigation, a clean environment and natural protective mechanisms such as mycorrhiza ensures healthy plants and minimises the risk of root rot. With these measures, you can protect your plants in the long term and give them the best conditions for strong growth.