Root rot is a common issue for Crassula plants, often caused by excessive moisture around the roots. From the plant's perspective, this condition disrupts oxygen uptake and nutrient absorption, leading to weakened health. Crassulas, being succulents, store water in their leaves and stems, making them highly susceptible to overwatering. When roots sit in soggy soil, they suffocate and decay, inviting harmful fungi like Pythium or Phytophthora. Preventing root rot requires mimicking the plant's natural arid habitat.
Crassula plants thrive on a "soak and dry" method. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. From the plant's perspective, this mimics the sporadic rainfall of their native environment. Use your finger to check soil moisture—water only when the top 1-2 inches are dry. Avoid rigid schedules, as factors like humidity, temperature, and pot size affect drying times. Overwatering is the primary cause of root rot, so err on the side of underwatering.
Crassulas demand fast-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots. A mix of cactus/succulent soil with added perlite, pumice, or coarse sand (50-70% inorganic material) ensures rapid drainage. From the plant's perspective, this replicates the gritty, porous soils of their natural habitats. Avoid dense, moisture-retentive soils like standard potting mix, which trap water and promote rot. Repotting every 2-3 years refreshes the soil and prevents compaction.
Choose pots with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Terracotta pots are ideal because they wick away moisture, reducing the risk of soggy soil. From the plant's perspective, a breathable pot mimics the airy root zone of rocky outcrops. Avoid decorative pots without drainage, or use them as cache pots with a well-draining inner container. Ensure the pot size matches the plant's root system—oversized pots hold excess moisture, increasing rot risk.
Crassulas prefer bright, indirect light and warm temperatures (60-75°F or 15-24°C). From the plant's perspective, adequate light ensures efficient water use through transpiration, while poor light slows drying. Avoid cold, damp conditions, which exacerbate rot. Increase airflow around the plant to speed up soil drying—a small fan or spacing plants apart helps. In humid climates, reduce watering frequency further.
Monitor your Crassula for signs of root rot, such as yellowing leaves, mushy stems, or a foul smell. From the plant's perspective, these symptoms signal distress. If rot is suspected, unpot the plant, trim blackened roots with sterile tools, and repot in fresh, dry soil. Let the plant recover in shade for a week before resuming light watering. Catching rot early improves survival chances.
Crassulas enter dormancy in winter, requiring even less water. From the plant's perspective, reduced growth means slower water uptake. Water sparingly (once every 3-4 weeks) during cold months. In active growth seasons (spring/summer), increase watering slightly but always prioritize dryness between sessions. Adjust care based on the plant's lifecycle to avoid stress-induced rot.
Use clean pots and tools to prevent pathogen introduction. From the plant's perspective, open wounds from repotting or pruning are vulnerable to infection. Sterilize tools with rubbing alcohol and rinse reused pots with a bleach solution (1:10 ratio). Avoid cross-contamination by isolating new or sick plants until healthy.
