Corn Plant Stem Rot: Can You Save It?

Blackening Stem = Advanced Root Rot

A corn plant repotted into an oversized pot developed black rot moving up the stem at ½ inch/day. The cause: excess soil retained moisture, rotting roots.

Immediate Triage

1. Cut above the rot: If the cross-section is firm and white, root the top in water.
2. Save the basal pup: Detach and root the 2-inch sprout from the base.
3. Discard the main cane: Dead roots cannot support it.

Rooting Cuttings in Water

• Use a clear glass; change water weekly.
• Bright indirect light.
• Roots appear in ~1 month; pot when 1 inch long in 4-inch pot with damp peat mix.
• Water when top ½ inch dry; upsize only when pot dries in 2 days.

Prevention

Never overpot. Corn plants prefer tight quarters. Use well-draining mix and water only when top quarter of soil is dry.