From my perspective, the problem begins unseen, beneath the soil. My roots, which are my lifeline for absorbing water and nutrients, are under attack. A pathogen, often a fungus like *Fusarium* or *Pythium*, has infiltrated my system. This usually happens because my home environment is too wet and cold for too long. My caudex, the swollen trunk that stores my water, prefers to be on the dry side. When I am over-loved with too much water, or my pot does not let the excess escape, the soil becomes waterlogged. My roots, desperate for air, begin to suffocate and soften. The opportunistic pathogens then invade these weakened tissues, causing them to rot and turn a mushy, dark brown or black. This is the beginning of the end if not noticed.
I try to communicate my distress. The first sign I often show is a general wilting or drooping of my leaves, even when my soil is damp. This is confusing for my caretaker because it mimics thirst, but the opposite is true. My rotting roots cannot transport water upwards, so my leaves and stems begin to soften and wither. Next, my beautiful, glossy green leaves will start to yellow and drop prematurely. This is not a seasonal change; it is a cry for help. You may notice that my growth has completely stalled. The most severe signal is when my proud, firm caudex becomes soft, squishy, and discolored. If this happens, the rot has spread extensively through my core.
To save me, swift and decisive action is required. I must be carefully lifted from my pot. All the old, contaminated soil must be gently shaken and washed from my root system. Now comes the critical part: the surgery. Using sterile, sharp pruning shears, every single soft, mushy, and dark root must be cut away. Only firm, healthy, white or tan roots should remain. This feels like a rebirth, albeit a stressful one. After the pruning, it is crucial to let my roots and caudex dry out completely in a warm, shaded, and airy spot for several days. This callousing process seals the wounds and prevents new infections.
I cannot return to my old, contaminated pot or soil. I need a new, clean pot with exceptional drainage holes—terra cotta is ideal because it breathes. My new soil must be a very fast-draining mix, specifically formulated for succulents or cacti, often containing plenty of perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. When repotting, my caretaker must ensure my entire root system and the base of my caudex are above the soil line; I need to breathe. After repotting, I should not be watered immediately. A wait of about a week allows me to settle and any minor root injuries to heal, preventing a relapse.
My needs are simple but non-negotiable. Water me deeply but only when my soil is completely dry all the way through. In winter, when I am dormant, I need very little water at all. Please ensure I bask in plenty of bright, direct sunlight and warmth, which helps my soil dry appropriately and keeps me strong. Finally, a regular, diluted fertilizer during my growing season gives me the strength to produce a magnificent crown of flowers, showing you I am truly grateful for your care.
