How do I know if the roots are rotting?

Rotten roots are soft, slimy, and often have a foul odor. Healthy roots are firm and usually white or light tan.

If caught early, you can trim away the mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh soil. If the entire root system is mushy, it is likely too late.

Marsh foxtail: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil and the water in the tray.
Check the color of the roots if you can see them.
Look for yellowing at the base of the stems.

Likely causes

Stagnant Water
Most likely
How to tell: The water in the tray smells bad or looks murky. The base of the plant may look mushy or discolored.
What to do: Empty the tray and flush the soil with fresh, clean water. If the smell persists, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: The soil stays waterlogged for too long and the plant looks yellow or stunted. The roots may appear brown and slimy instead of firm and white.
What to do: Repot the plant into a container with better drainage holes. Use a mix that retains moisture but allows excess water to escape.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your marsh foxtail

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 roots are black and mushy, the plant is in serious trouble. Healthy roots should be firm and light in color.

Stopping it coming back

Refresh the water in the tray regularly rather than letting it sit for weeks. Ensure your soil mix is not too dense or compacted.

Marsh foxtail: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your marsh foxtail 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

How do I know if the roots are rotting?: Rotten roots are soft, slimy, and often have a foul odor. Healthy roots are firm and usually white or light tan.
Can I fix root rot?: If caught early, you can trim away the mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh soil. If the entire root system is mushy, it is likely too late.

Is my marsh foxtail suffering from root rot?