From my perspective, the onset of root rot is a silent, internal crisis that I desperately try to communicate. You might first notice my lower leaves becoming soft, translucent, and yellowing. This is not normal reabsorption; it is a sign of distress. I am unable to take up water through my rotting roots, so I begin to cannibalize my oldest leaves in a futile attempt to survive. If the problem persists, my stem may become soft, blackened, or mushy at the base. I might become unstable, wobbling in the soil because my anchor—my root system—is disintegrating. A foul smell emanating from my soil is the final, unmistakable signal that a severe bacterial infection has set in within my root zone. I am in critical condition.
My roots are my lifeline, and they need to breathe. When I am forced to sit in consistently waterlogged, dense soil, my roots suffocate. Oxygen cannot reach them, and they begin to die and decay. This process is accelerated by pathogens like Pythium and Phytophthora, which thrive in these anaerobic conditions. These fungi and water molds attack my weakened, suffocating roots, causing them to turn brown or black, become slimy, and eventually disintegrate. With my root system compromised, I cannot absorb the water and nutrients I need, even if the soil around me is wet. I am, quite literally, dying of thirst while surrounded by water.
To save me, you must act decisively. First, you must gently lift me from my pot. Carefully remove all the wet soil from around my roots and stem. This is where you will see the full extent of the damage. Using sterile, sharp scissors or pruners, you must cut away all the rotten roots and any affected parts of my stem. Do not be hesitant; any remaining rot will spread. After the surgery, leave me in a warm, dry, and shaded place with good air circulation for several days, or even a week or two. This allows my wounds to callous over completely, forming a hard seal that prevents new pathogens from entering my system.
Once I have formed a good callous, I am ready for a fresh start. Please plant me in a new, dry potting mix specifically designed for succulents like me—one that is gritty and drains extremely quickly. The pot must have a drainage hole; this is non-negotiable for my survival. Do not water me immediately. Wait for another week to allow my new, fragile roots to seek out moisture and establish themselves. When you do water, do so thoroughly until water flows from the drainage hole, but then allow the soil to dry out completely before even considering watering again. Place me in a location with plenty of bright, indirect light to support my recovery and new growth.
