Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim away the black, mushy roots with clean shears and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.

How often should I check the soil?

Check the soil every 7 days. If the top inch is still wet, wait a few more days before watering again.

Why is my Abelia looking wilted and sickly? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the top inch of soil to see if it is damp.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Gently lift the plant to check if the roots look dark or slimy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown and the stems feel soft or mushy near the base. You might also notice a sour smell coming from the soil.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the plant is in a pot, ensure it has drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after you water. The plant looks stunted and refuses to grow even during the active season.
What to do: Repot your Abelia into a container with better drainage holes using a well draining potting mix. Add perlite or coarse sand to the soil to improve airflow around the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your abelia

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the stems are black and mushy at the base, the rot may be too advanced to save the plant. It is normal for a few older leaves to yellow occasionally, but widespread wilting is a serious sign.

Stopping it coming back

Only water your Abelia when the top inch of soil is dry and always choose a pot that allows excess water to escape.

Abelia: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your abelia and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with root rot?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim away the black, mushy roots with clean shears and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.
How often should I check the soil?: Check the soil every 7 days. If the top inch is still wet, wait a few more days before watering again.

Why is my Abelia looking wilted and sickly?