Take Extra Caution When Using Hydrogen Peroxide To Treat Root Rot On Peace Lilies
Hydrogen peroxide can be a useful tool for treating root rot in peace lilies, but it must be used with caution. Root rot often occurs due to overwatering or poor drainage, causing the roots to become mushy, brown, or black.
Hydrogen peroxide helps disinfect and oxygenate the roots, preventing the spread of rot and encouraging healthy growth. However, here’s how to use it safely:
Dilute the Solution: Use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution and dilute it with water in a 1:1 ratio. This ensures that it’s not too strong, which can damage healthy roots.
Remove Affected Roots: Gently remove the plant from its pot and trim off any rotting or mushy roots with sterilized scissors. Only leave healthy, firm roots behind.
Soak the Roots: Place the remaining healthy roots in the diluted hydrogen peroxide solution for 5-10 minutes to disinfect them. Avoid soaking the plant for too long to prevent further damage.
Repot in Fresh Soil: After the soaking, allow the roots to dry slightly before repotting the peace lily in a clean pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Monitor for Recovery: After treatment, be sure to monitor the plant closely. Avoid overwatering, and ensure it gets the right amount of light and humidity to support its recovery.