warning
Root Rot in Geranium Zonal
verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team
Zonal geraniums are reliable, frost-sensitive perennials with dense clusters of red, pink, white, or bicolor flowers and distinctive dark-banded foliage that gives them their name
potted_plant
Geranium Zonal care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to root rot in Geranium Zonal. Check each one as a potential cause.
water_drop
Water
Water moderately; allow soil to dry between waterings; overwatering is the primary cause of decline
compost
Soil
Well-draining potting soil or garden soil; tolerates poor soil; pH 6.0–7.0
humidity_percentage
Humidity
Low to moderate humidity; dislikes excessive moisture in air
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in Geranium Zonal
- fiber_manual_recordBrown, mushy roots
- fiber_manual_recordYellowing leaves
- fiber_manual_recordWilting despite moist soil
- fiber_manual_recordFoul smell from soil
help
Common causes in Geranium Zonal
- fiber_manual_recordOverwatering
- fiber_manual_recordPoor drainage
- fiber_manual_recordFungal pathogens
troubleshoot
How to diagnose root rot in Geranium Zonal
Remove plant from pot. Healthy roots are white/tan and firm. Rotted roots are brown/black and mushy.
healing
How to treat root rot in Geranium Zonal
Trim all rotted roots with sterile scissors. Treat with hydrogen peroxide solution. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil.
shield
Preventing root rot in Geranium Zonal
Always use pots with drainage holes. Allow soil to partially dry between waterings. Use well-draining compost.