Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can save it by removing the rotted roots and repotting in dry soil. If the roots are mostly gone, the plant will likely struggle to survive.

How often should I water to avoid this?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch is still damp, wait a few more days.

St. Bernard's lily: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Smell the soil for a musty odor.
Gently lift the plant to see if the roots are firm or mushy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and mushy at the base. The soil smells sour or swampy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out. If the plant is severely affected, repot it into fresh, well draining soil after trimming away black, slimy roots.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools at the bottom of the pot for days. The plant looks wilted even when the soil feels wet.
What to do: Ensure your pot has holes at the bottom. Use a potting mix amended with perlite to improve airflow.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your st. bernard's lily

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

This is a serious condition that requires immediate action. If the entire root system is black and mushy, the plant may not recover.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Never let the pot sit in a saucer of standing water.

St. Bernard's lily: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your st. bernard's lily 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?: If you catch it early, you can save it by removing the rotted roots and repotting in dry soil. If the roots are mostly gone, the plant will likely struggle to survive.
How often should I water to avoid this?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch is still damp, wait a few more days.

Why is my St. Bernard's lily showing signs of root rot?