Tired of seeing your ZZ plant suffering from root rot? This simple salt trick can help save your plant and prevent future problems. Find out how!
A little-known shocking fact—salt isn’t always the villain in plant care! With the right salt type, it is quite easy to change the game and revive a struggling ZZ plant. Read along to check out the reasons for root rot with this exclusive salt solution.
Why Does Root Rot Happen?
Do you end up overwatering quite frequently? Then root rot is something that is definitely going to happen to your plants. Because it mostly occurs when the soil stays wet for a very long time. Overly moist conditions seem to be the best shelter for pests and fungi that lead to root rotting.
Additionally, if there is not enough air circulation as well, then the roots start to degrade by turning brown, soft, and squishy. Meanwhile, ZZ plants are somewhat resilient plants, but even they can’t handle sitting in soggy soil for too long
So, the key to this solution is where salt comes into play! Let’s find out more.
Can Salt Really Stop ZZ Plant Root Rot?
If your ZZ plant’s roots are turning mushy and the leaves are yellowing, chances are, root rot has set in. Overwatering is usually the main culprit, but there’s a surprising fix—salt! Yes, not all but certain types of salt can help prevent and even combat root rot.
But before you go on sprinkling salt around like a chef in a cooking show, let’s see how this trick actually works and which salt is safe to use.
The Salt Trick—How It Works
Epsom salt and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) are the way out of root rotting issues. Epsom salt is packed with magnesium and sulfur, which not only helps strengthen roots but also helps seeds germinate, makes plants grow bushier, produces more flowers, increases chlorophyll production, and deters pests, such as slugs and voles
On the other hand, Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) provides more oxygen for healthy root growth. It doesn’t just fight harmful bacteria—it also gives your plant a little nutrient boost while at it!
Fact: Did you know a simple coin can also do wonders to grow this plant successfully? Check this article on it for more details!
How to Use the Salt Trick Safely
Using the salt trick correctly is really important to avoid causing further stress to your ZZ plant. Let’s have a detailed step-by-step process
- Start by gently removing the plant from its pot and shake off the excess wet soil. Then inspect the roots closely and trim off any mushy, dark, or foul-smelling sections using sterile scissors.
- Once you’ve cleaned up the roots, prepare an Epsom salt solution by dissolving one tablespoon of it in a gallon of lukewarm water.
- Soak the roots in this solution for about 15-20 minutes to help eliminate bacteria and strengthen the remaining healthy roots.
- After this, place the plant in a well-ventilated area to air dry for a few hours before repotting it in fresh, well-draining soil.
- Meanwhile, remember—patience is key! It’s better to give the roots time to dry completely rather than rush the process.
- Lastly, it’s important to hold off on watering for a few days after replanting, to give time to acclimatize in its new home and heal.
Is Epsom Salt Safe for ZZ Plants?
Yes! But only when used correctly. Epsom salt won’t harm your ZZ plant. But too much can cause salt buildup in the soil, which might create new problems. The trick is to use it only when needed—not as part of your regular care routine.
If you ever notice a white crust forming on top of the soil, that’s excess salt. No worries—just flush the soil with clean water to wash it away.
When Should You Use the Salt Trick?
Only and only when you suspect root rot! If your ZZ plant is healthy, there’s no need to mess with it. The best time to do this treatment is early morning or evening when it’s cooler. If the root rot is severe, you can repeat the soak after a week, but don’t overdo it—too much salt exposure can dry out the roots even more.
Preventing Future Root Rot
The best way to deal with root rot is to prevent it from happening in the first place.
- Start by using the right soil mix: ZZ plants thrive in a fast-draining combination of potting soil, perlite, and sand.
- Proper watering is also key: Always let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Since ZZ plants store water in their rhizomes, they don’t need frequent watering, and overdoing it can lead to root rot.
- Another important factor is drainage. If your pot lacks drainage holes, it’s time to switch to one that allows excess water to escape easily.
- For an extra preventive measure, consider using the hydrogen peroxide trick. Mixing one part hydrogen peroxide with three parts water and applying it as a soil drench once a month can help keep harmful fungal growth at bay and maintain healthy roots.
Pro Tip: When H2O2 is combined with lemon juice, it creates an abrasive paste that can effectively clean rusty tools. However, it’s important to rinse thoroughly, as leftover salt can accelerate rusting rather than prevent it.
Root rot can be a nightmare for plant owners, but the Epsom salt trick is a simple and effective way to revive your ZZ plant. Just remember—timing and moderation are everything! So, have you tried this method before? Share your experience in the comments!
