Can I save a plant with root rot?

If the rot is caught early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If the entire root system is mushy, it is usually best to start over.

How often should I water?

Water every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch is still damp, wait another day or two.

Western columbine: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil an inch deep to see if it is saturated.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Check the base of the stem for soft or discolored tissue.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown and the base of the stem feels mushy. The soil remains wet to the touch for more than a week.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the soil is heavy, repot the plant into a well draining mix containing perlite or sand.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil after watering. The plant looks wilted even when the soil is wet.
What to do: Ensure your container has at least three drainage holes at the bottom. Elevate the pot slightly on feet or bricks to allow excess water to escape freely.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your western columbine

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 stem base is black and mushy, the rot has likely reached the crown and the plant may not recover. It is normal for the plant to wilt slightly on very hot afternoons, but it should perk up by evening.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a fast draining potting mix and wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again.

Western columbine: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your western columbine 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with root rot?: If the rot is caught early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If the entire root system is mushy, it is usually best to start over.
How often should I water?: Water every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch is still damp, wait another day or two.

Why is my Western columbine wilting and rotting?