How often should I water to avoid this?

Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait another day or two.

Can I save a plant with mushy roots?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim away the dead roots, wash the remaining healthy ones, and repot in dry soil.

Why is my redroot pigweed wilting? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it feels swampy or waterlogged.
Check the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Gently pull the plant out to inspect the roots for a foul smell.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves will turn yellow and droop even though the soil is wet. The roots will look brown and mushy instead of firm and white.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the roots are badly damaged, trim the mushy parts and repot in fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The plant looks stunted and unhappy despite your care.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Mix in some perlite or sand to improve the soil structure and allow excess water to escape.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your redroot pigweed

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 stem feels soft or mushy, the rot has likely spread too far. If the leaves are just slightly drooping, you can usually save it by adjusting your watering.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry and always empty the saucer under the pot after watering.

Redroot pigweed: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your redroot pigweed 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 often should I water to avoid this?: Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait another day or two.
Can I save a plant with mushy roots?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim away the dead roots, wash the remaining healthy ones, and repot in dry soil.

Why is my redroot pigweed wilting?