Noticed this fungus several days if not a week after I repotted into this bigger pot. I had also added some used ground coffee beans (as I read philodendrons like slightly acidic soil) as natural fertiliser - I’m hoping doing either of these did not lead to these issues but if so, help please! Two stems are yellowing, any suggestions on how to remove, identify this type of fungus and what threats it poses?
It's hard to say definitively without seeing the roots, but judging by how few vines and leaves this plant has, there's a good chance that your pot is too big for the root ball and your plant is suffering from root rot. If that's the case, the fungus isn't the main issue - it's just an indication that the soil isn't drying out and your plant is being overwatered. Both are consequences of using too big of a pot. I'd suggest that you prune off any yellowing/dead leaves and stems, remove any dying roots, spray the remaining roots with diluted hydrogen peroxide (it will kill the bacteria and fungi on the roots that are responsible for root rot), then repot your plant into a smaller pot. The pot should be about 1" greater in diameter than the root ball. Don't reuse the soil that it's currently in or you'll bring the root rot microbes to the new pot. Also, amending your soil with things like orchid bark and chunky perlite can help increase drainage to prevent root rot in the future. Finally, you really don't need the coffee grinds. A lot of commercial soils tend to be slightly acidic straight from the bag.
1 like Thank you so much! I will action these. Would you say reduce watering as well upon repotting?
0 likes Potting it into a bone-dry medium will stress the plant further, so you should water immediately after repotting, but make sure the soil mix is REALLY chunky. The chunkier the mix, the better it will drain, allowing more oxygen to reach the roots (both are important for treating/preventing root rot). You may find yourself watering more frequently because the medium will dry out better. Just make sure that your plant actually needs water before you give it any. I like to let mine get at least 75% dry before I water again.
1 like Ahh I see, I’m still learning but I appreciate your guidance :)
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Coffee grounds promote fungal growth especially if the soil stays damp. Use a commercial fungicide, use less coffee grounds or switch to a new fertilizer.
1 like Thank you ! Any particular fertiliser brand you recommend or any is fine?
0 likes Thanks!
0 likes I use standard miracle gro that is supposed to be applied once a month. I apply it twice a month by diluting it 50 percent. I have a wide variety of tropical plants, over 120. I don’t have issues with fertilizer burn. I stop/reduce fertilizing in winter when growth rate slows. I also add SuperThrive plant vitamins to the fertilizer water. 🍀🪴
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