Cutting Rots
Rhododendron and
141 host plants
Last updated
Cuttings rot at the base before rooting develops, a common problem in damp, poorly ventilated propagation environments with excessive moisture. Use sterile propagation media and provide good air circulation with fans to keep humidity moderate. Take cuttings only from disease-free, healthy wood. Keep moisture high to encourage rooting but never waterlogged; good drainage and air circulation prevent fungal colonization at the base.
Reduce moisture around affected tissue by improving drainage and air circulation. Remove rotted material cleanly and dispose of it away from the planting area. Avoid wounding healthy tissue during cleanup, as fresh wounds create new entry points. If the problem keeps returning, evaluate whether the site is too wet or poorly drained for the species you are growing.
Quick Reference
Management
Cultural Controls
- Use tissue cultured plants (if possible) to avoid the problem altogether.
- Take cuttings from field plants above the splash zone.
- Rain and irrigation can splash soil particles as well as microorganisms onto plants.
- Do not take cuttings from obviously or subtly diseased plants.
- Take cuttings in the morning and/or after irrigation when they are more fully hydrated.
- Avoid hot weather.