Haworthia cooperi rot problem

For discussion on all Haworthiad type plants - open to all.
Post Reply
AlysonJoy
BCSS Member
Posts: 32
https://www.behance.net/kuchnie-warszawa
Joined: 17 Jun 2020
Branch: SHEFFIELD
Country: United Kingdom

Haworthia cooperi rot problem

Post by AlysonJoy »

Sometime last month I bought a haworthia cooperi. To cut a long story short I realised it had been overwatered and maybe the pot it was in was on the large side. Its leaves were sort of deflated. I took it out of the pot which I thought was overly large. A lot of roots were lost, but I rinsed it clear of rotten matter and noticed it had a few roots left, not enough maybe. I let it dr on a paper towel 24 to 36 hours. All remaining roots appeared white.

I got a smaller pot, mixed up a grittier compost mix than the one it came with. I decided to experiment with rooting gel and painted it on to the root area where previously roots had broken off. Anyway I potted it, now its in a bright non direct sunlight spot. I havent watered it as i dont know if it can take up water.

I obviously wont disturb it. It looks no worse. Its been over a week. How long will it take to grow more roots? How long should I withold water?
User avatar
el48tel
BCSS Member
Posts: 5281
Joined: 04 Aug 2018
Branch: LEEDS
Country: UK
Role within the BCSS: Member
Location: Leeds

Re: Haworthia cooperi rot problem

Post by el48tel »

Is it a species which can lose its roots as I believe some can?
Had it happen to a retusa .... new compost and rooting powder solved it for that plant.
Endeavouring to grow Aylostera, Echinocereus, Echinopsis, Gymnocalycium, Matucana, Rebutia, and Sulcorebutia. Fallen out of love with Lithops and aggravated by Aeoniums.
Currently being wooed by Haworthia, attempting hybridisation, and enticed by Mesembs.
User avatar
Stuart
BCSS Member
Posts: 1951
Joined: 11 Jan 2007
Branch: BRIGHTON, HOVE & District
Country: England

Re: Haworthia cooperi rot problem

Post by Stuart »

Haworthias grow mainly in spring and autumn and tend to rest during hot weather in summer. It's best to ease off with watering during hot weather in mid-summer. Haworthia Cooperi is one of the easier ones and I'd just water your plant carefully until it shows it's taking up water in the leaves. You sound like you're doing all the right things.

Stuart
User avatar
ralphrmartin
BCSS Research Committee Chairman
Posts: 6052
Joined: 11 Jan 2007
Branch: None
Country: United Kingdom
Role within the BCSS: Chairman - Research
Location: Pwllheli
Contact:

Re: Haworthia cooperi rot problem

Post by ralphrmartin »

I'd not worry too much. The way I grow them at least, its not unusual for Haworthias to lose roots, but also to grow new ones. It's not that common that one that has lost its roots fails completely. Your treatment sounds fine (I use rooting powder rather than gel). After some weeks it should start to perk up. Stuart's advice is spot on too.
Ralph Martin
https://www.rrm.me.uk/Cacti/cacti.html
Members visiting the Llyn Peninsula are welcome to visit my collection.

Swaps and sales at https://www.rrm.me.uk/Cacti/forsale.php

My Field Number Database is at https://www.fieldnos.bcss.org.uk
AlysonJoy
BCSS Member
Posts: 32
Joined: 17 Jun 2020
Branch: SHEFFIELD
Country: United Kingdom

Re: Haworthia cooperi rot problem

Post by AlysonJoy »

Thankyou all so much thats very reassuring. I wasnt sure but hopefully it will perk up.
AlysonJoy
BCSS Member
Posts: 32
Joined: 17 Jun 2020
Branch: SHEFFIELD
Country: United Kingdom

Re: Haworthia cooperi rot problem

Post by AlysonJoy »

Still not perky. Its been watered. It does have roots now.
20201001_193139.jpg
FQ
Registered Guest
Posts: 23
Joined: 14 Jan 2009

Re: Haworthia cooperi rot problem

Post by FQ »

Wait more time. More light. He will grow roots by himself. A few months is normal. And after growing roots, as long as watering will immediately absorb water. If the light is not enough, it will not be good
I usually leave it on the windowsill for a long time. I can plant it after growing roots in the air. Or I can plant it in moist soil for a week without watering. Keep it bright.
User avatar
ralphrmartin
BCSS Research Committee Chairman
Posts: 6052
Joined: 11 Jan 2007
Branch: None
Country: United Kingdom
Role within the BCSS: Chairman - Research
Location: Pwllheli
Contact:

Re: Haworthia cooperi rot problem

Post by ralphrmartin »

Some forms have fleshier leaves than others. It looks healthy enough. I think its going to be fine.
Ralph Martin
https://www.rrm.me.uk/Cacti/cacti.html
Members visiting the Llyn Peninsula are welcome to visit my collection.

Swaps and sales at https://www.rrm.me.uk/Cacti/forsale.php

My Field Number Database is at https://www.fieldnos.bcss.org.uk
Post Reply