Potted Plant White Root Spheres: Mystery Organism Needs Lab ID

Case

Houseplants: white spheres on roots, spreading pot-to-pot over months. Decimated cacti, killing jade. Some hosts look healthy. Fungicide failed.

Expert Response

Luke: "Not sure. Clip root with spheres → County Extension or reputable nursery for ID. Could be insect eggs, fungal sclerotia, or harmless saprophyte in organic matter."

Possible Identities

Action Plan

1. Get professional ID (Extension/lab) — critical for correct treatment.
2. Isolate all affected plants.
3. Discard severely infested (cacti).
4. Repot survivors in sterile mix; clean pots with bleach.
5. Monitor closely.

White spheres on roots = unusual. Don't guess. Lab ID saves plants.