Cutting Rots

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.