What to Do for Stem Rot on Indoor Plants

Stem rot, also called black rot, is found in both indoor and outdoor plants. This condition is a fungus, and when a plant has it, the stem starts to change color and become darker until it goes black. When a plant is in a home, this condition may result from the combination of being over-watered, using unsterilized tools, contact with whiteflies or other factors. This infection can be contagious. Once an indoor plant is infected, the best remedy is to take preventive measures.

There are different stages of stem rot. The beginnings of the condition may resemble others such as lack of nutrition. If this is the case, remove the indoor plant from the presence of other plants to prevent the spreading in case it is stem rot, and add nutrients to the soil. In the earlier stages of the disease, prune the plant, removing the dying or infected leaves.

If the condition worsens and the full stem starts to blacken, there is no cure. The only thing to do is remove the plant from the pot and dispose of it. Disinfect the pot completely and sterilize it to ensure other plants are not contaminated from the same pot. Dry the pot in the oven if possible at between 180 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Pour fumigated or pasteurized soil into the pot for the next plant. Check the other indoor plants for this condition as it tends to spread quickly.

For plants that may have been exposed to the infection but are either not showing symptoms or showing mild symptoms it may be possible to treat them with chemicals. Be careful when applying these because the chemicals do end up being absorbed by the indoor plant and, depending on what you are growing, you and others could end up consuming it.

You have a choice of fungicides to use for which you must abide by the instructions. Mild fungicide can be used for safer results. This is made from a combination of lime, water, and copper sulfate. This cannot be mixed and stored so you must use it the same day that you make it and in moderation.

Prevention is the best measure to take with stem rot. Diseases such as these like warm and wet conditions to control the elements that they are exposed to. Check the drainage of the indoor plants to see that it is done correctly. Do not over-water. It is best to let the soil become dry and soak it with water instead of keeping the soil moist.

For starting new indoor plants, take cuttings by gently picking the root or stem to plant it. Try not to use cutting instruments. In the case that it is necessary, dip the blade in 70 percent alcohol, wipe it and heat it to sterilize it first.