Should I keep the soil wet?

No, the soil should be kept just slightly moist. The central tank is where the plant gets most of its water.

Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in dry soil. If the stem is mushy, it is likely too late.

Silver vase bromeliad: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is soggy or smells bad.
Verify that the pot has drainage holes.
Inspect the base of the plant for mushy tissue.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The base of the plant feels mushy and the leaves start to turn yellow or collapse. The soil stays soggy to the touch.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out. If the rot is advanced, you may need to repot into fresh, well draining soil.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits at the bottom of the pot after you water. This prevents oxygen from reaching the roots.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes. Use a chunky, airy potting mix designed for bromeliads or orchids.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your silver vase bromeliad

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 base of the plant is soft and mushy, the rot may have already reached the core. This is often fatal for the plant.

Stopping it coming back

Only water the soil surface occasionally and ensure the central tank is not overflowing into the soil.

Silver vase bromeliad: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your silver vase bromeliad 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

Should I keep the soil wet?: No, the soil should be kept just slightly moist. The central tank is where the plant gets most of its water.
Can I save a plant with root rot?: If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in dry soil. If the stem is mushy, it is likely too late.

How do I fix root rot in my silver vase bromeliad?