Can a soursop recover from root rot?

If you catch it early and remove all the damaged roots, the tree can recover. It will need time and careful watering to grow new, healthy roots.

Should I fertilize a plant with root rot?

No, do not fertilize a stressed plant. Wait until you see new, healthy growth before resuming any feeding schedule.

How do I fix root rot on my soursop?

Check these first

Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Gently pull the plant to see if it feels loose in the pot.
Check the roots for a dark, slimy appearance.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The plant wilts despite having wet soil and the leaves may turn yellow or drop.
What to do: Carefully remove the tree from its pot and wash away the old soil. Trim off any mushy, dark, or foul smelling roots with sterilized scissors and repot in fresh, well draining soil.
Excessive Watering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays wet for more than a week and the stem base feels soft or mushy.
What to do: Allow the soil to dry out significantly between waterings. Use a moisture meter or your finger to ensure the top inch is dry before adding more water.

When to worry

If the stem base is soft or the roots are entirely black and mushy, the plant may be beyond saving. Act immediately at the first sign of wilting.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a pot with drainage holes and a high quality, airy potting mix. Never let the pot sit in a tray of water.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your soursop.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Can a soursop recover from root rot?: If you catch it early and remove all the damaged roots, the tree can recover. It will need time and careful watering to grow new, healthy roots.
Should I fertilize a plant with root rot?: No, do not fertilize a stressed plant. Wait until you see new, healthy growth before resuming any feeding schedule.