The best way to eliminate a virus problem is to discard the entire plant. Houseplant growers are urged not to purchase houseplant which are unthrifty looking since they may be buying a disease problem that could spread to healthy plants. Root and stem rot diseases are caused by soilborne microorganisms. Lesions may form on the stem, especially near the soil surface, and girdle plants. In other cases, stems and crowns may become discolored, and soft and mushy.
Diseased roots become brown to black and slough off easily.
The following are controls for houseplant root and stem diseases. Use of sterile soil or sterile soil-less mix as a preventive measure. Packages of sterile soil-less mixes may also be purchased. Since root rot diseases occur under wet soil conditions, providing good drainage and avoiding overwatering can also help in controlling soilborne disease problems. Avoid wetting stems and foliage when a stem rot is prevalent.