Can I save a tree with root rot?

If caught early, you can improve drainage and reduce watering to help the tree recover. If the roots are mostly black and mushy, it is often too late.

Does root rot spread?

The fungal pathogens can persist in the soil and potentially affect other nearby plants. Proper drainage is the best way to keep the soil healthy.

Monkey puzzle tree: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil near the base for a foul odor.
Check if the ground around the tree stays wet for days after rain.
Examine the base of the trunk for any soft or discolored bark.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The tree shows stunted growth and the needles may wilt or turn yellow. The soil around the base smells musty or sour.
What to do: Improve the site drainage by creating a mound or installing a drainage system. If the tree is in a pot, repot it into fresh, well draining soil and trim away any black, mushy roots.
Excessive Watering
Possible
How to tell: The tree is watered too frequently, preventing the roots from getting oxygen. The needles drop prematurely.
What to do: Adjust your watering schedule to every 7 to 14 days. Always check that the top few inches of soil are dry before adding more water.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your monkey puzzle tree

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

Root rot is a critical issue that can kill the tree if left untreated. If the trunk base is soft or mushy, the damage may be too extensive to save the tree.

Stopping it coming back

Plant your tree in a location that does not collect standing water and avoid overwatering.

Monkey puzzle tree: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your monkey puzzle tree 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 tree with root rot?: If caught early, you can improve drainage and reduce watering to help the tree recover. If the roots are mostly black and mushy, it is often too late.
Does root rot spread?: The fungal pathogens can persist in the soil and potentially affect other nearby plants. Proper drainage is the best way to keep the soil healthy.

How do I know if my Monkey puzzle tree has root rot?