How to Get Fungus Off Orchid Roots

Since most orchids do not grow in soil, keeping the moss, bark or other growing medium moist is important. However, the constant moisture sometimes causes fungal problems on the roots. The most common root fungi are black rot, fusarium wilt, rhizoctonia root rot and southern blight. Fungus that appears on the roots must be removed or the spores will eventually kill the orchid. Getting rid of orchid fungus involves both mechanical and chemical approaches.

Water
Liquid fungicide
Hand pruners
Liquid dish soap
Scrubber sponge
Towel
Orchid potting medium

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the orchid plant from the pot it is in so that you can clearly examine the root system. Brush away any bark or moss clinging to the roots.
- 2
  Fill a sink with 5 gallons of water and 1/4 tsp. of a liquid fungicide. Place the orchid roots into it. Allow the plant to soak for ten minutes. Place a pair of hand pruners into the sink to soak as well.
- 3
  Pick up the orchid and cut off all roots that exhibit fungal growth using the hand pruners. Fungal growth is either black or gray and can appear slimy.
- 4
  Place the orchid back into the sink and allow it to soak for an additional ten minutes.
- 5
  Discard the potting medium that was originally in the pot since it is likely infected with fungal spores.
- 6
  Wash the old orchid pot in hot water and 1 to 2 tsp. of liquid dish soap. Use a scrubber sponge to ensure that the pot is thoroughly clean. Refill the sink with 5 gallons of water and 1/4 tsp. of a liquid fungicide. Submerse the pot in the water and let it soak for 20 minutes.
- 7
  Remove the pot from the sink and drain out the water. Do not rinse the pot. Instead, dry it with a towel and refill it with the desired potting medium until it is half full. Place the orchid roots back into the pot and cover them with additional medium.
- 8
  Water the medium with 1/4 cup of the fungicide water just until it is moist all the way through.

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