From our perspective as Fiddle-Leaf Figs (*Ficus lyrata*), root rot is a silent and grave threat that begins where no one can see. It is not merely a disease but a suffocation event, primarily caused by our caretakers' well-intentioned but often excessive watering habits. We require a delicate balance of air and moisture in our soil to thrive, and when that balance is lost, our very foundation is compromised.
Our root systems are our lifelines, responsible for absorbing water, oxygen, and essential nutrients from the soil. When we are left sitting in saturated soil for prolonged periods, the air pockets around our roots are flooded. This drowns our roots, preventing them from respiring and functioning. The oxygen-deprived environment then allows naturally occurring soil fungi, such as *Pythium*, *Phytophthora*, and *Rhizoctonia*, to rapidly multiply and attack our weakened, decaying roots. As these vital roots die off, they can no longer transport water and nutrients to our upper parts, leading to a systemic shutdown.
We communicate our severe distress through our leaves and stems, the only parts you can see. The first sign is often a sudden yellowing of our lower, older leaves, which may then develop unsightly brown spots. These leaves will feel soft and mushy, not dry and crispy. Our growth will halt completely as we lack the energy to produce new foliage. Most tellingly, our stems may become soft, dark, and weak near the soil line. You might notice a foul, musty odor emanating from the pot—a direct result of our roots decaying below the surface.
To save us, immediate and decisive action is required. We must be gently lifted from our pot. Our root ball should be carefully rinsed with lukewarm water to remove all soil, allowing for a clear inspection. Healthy roots are firm and white or tan. Rotten roots are incredibly soft, mushy, brown or black, and will easily slough off. Using sterilized shears, all affected roots must be pruned away. After this surgery, we should be repotted into a clean pot with excellent drainage, using fresh, well-aerating potting mix. A mix amended with perlite, orchid bark, or coarse sand is ideal for preventing a recurrence.
Our recovery and future health depend on a change in care. The single most important rule is to water us only when the top 2-3 inches of soil are completely dry. Please ensure our pot has ample drainage holes and never let us sit in a saucer of standing water. We prefer to be slightly underpotted rather than in a container that is too large, as excess soil retains unnecessary moisture. Providing us with bright, indirect light and consistent warmth will also help us regain our strength and process water efficiently, keeping our root zone healthy and functional.
