How to Treat Root Rot in Plumeria – Repotting, Pruning & Root Zone Recovery

Once root rot takes hold, plumeria can rapidly decline unless action is taken. Fortunately, this disease is treatable if caught early. The key is to remove all rotted tissue, refresh the growing environment, and support the plant’s recovery through careful watering and root rebuilding.

This guide provides a complete, step-by-step process to treat root rot in plumeria using safe, effective techniques and organic-friendly options.

Step-by-Step Root Rot Treatment Plan

Step 1: Remove the Plant and Inspect Roots

• Gently unpot the plant and shake off or rinse away old soil
• Examine all roots:
  • Healthy: firm, white or tan
  • Rotted: brown/black, soft, slimy, or hollow
• Trim away all infected roots using clean, sharp shears

Tip: Disinfect tools with isopropyl alcohol or a 10% bleach solution between cuts.

Step 2: Clean the Base and Allow to Dry

• Blot the root ball with a clean towel
• Let the plant air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area for 24–72 hours
• Make sure the crown, base of the trunk, and cut roots are completely dry

For severe cases, allow the plant to remain out of soil for up to 5 days.

Step 3: Apply Root Zone Treatments

✅ Cinnamon or Sulfur Powder

• Dust on fresh root cuts and base to prevent fungal regrowth

✅ Optional Antifungal Dip

• Use thiophanate-methyl, copper fungicide, or a mild hydrogen peroxide soak (3% solution diluted 1:3 with water)
• Soak for no more than 10 minutes and dry completely before repotting

Step 4: Repot into Fresh, Fast-Draining Soil

• Use a sterile, gritty mix such as:
  • 50% coarse perlite + 25% pine bark + 25% cactus mix or coarse peat
• Choose a pot with multiple drainage holes
• Add a layer of pumice or gravel at the bottom (optional)
• Do not water immediately after repotting

Step 5: Wait to Water Until Recovery Begins

• Wait 5–10 days after repotting before first watering
• When watering resumes, do so only when soil is fully dry
• Apply water gently—no soaking until new growth resumes

If leaves are present and begin to droop, mist lightly rather than water.

Aftercare and Recovery Tips

• Keep in bright shade or filtered sun during recovery
• Do not fertilize until new leaves appear
• Add kelp extract or rooting stimulant after 2–3 weeks
• Monitor for new root tips or upright growth (usually within 4–6 weeks)
• Resume normal watering and feeding only after recovery signs are strong

Supplies You May Need

When to Consider Discarding

• If the entire root system is mushy with no viable roots
• If the base of the trunk is soft or smells foul even after trimming
• If mold or rot returns repeatedly despite clean conditions

In these cases, cut above the infection and attempt to root the healthy upper portion like a cutting.

Conclusion

Treating root rot in plumeria requires patience and precision—but recovery is possible. By removing all affected roots, drying the plant properly, and repotting into clean, dry media, you give your plumeria the best chance at a full recovery. In the next article, we’ll walk through how to prevent root rot long-term through proper potting, soil choice, and watering practices.