Can I save a cactus with root rot?

If the rot is caught early, you can trim the bad roots and let the plant callous over before repotting. If the stem is mushy, the plant is likely too far gone.

How often should I water?

Water every 14 to 21 days, but only if the soil is completely dry. When in doubt, wait another week.

Eve's Pin Cactus: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger or a wooden skewer deep into the soil to check for dampness.
Lift the pot to see if water is pooling in the drainage tray.
Press gently on the base of the stem to feel for soft spots.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The base of the plant feels soft or squishy to the touch and may turn yellow or brown.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the rot is severe, you must unpot the plant, trim away the black mushy roots, and repot in fresh, dry cactus soil.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the saucer or the soil remains damp for more than a few days after watering.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Use a gritty, well draining soil mix specifically designed for cacti.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your eve's pin cactus

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 is soft and dark all the way around, the rot has likely reached the core and the plant may not recover. If only a small section is affected, you might save it with surgery.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the soil is bone dry throughout the pot before watering again. Stick to a schedule of 14 to 21 days, but adjust based on your home's humidity.

Eve's Pin Cactus: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your eve's pin cactus 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 cactus with root rot?: If the rot is caught early, you can trim the bad roots and let the plant callous over before repotting. If the stem is mushy, the plant is likely too far gone.
How often should I water?: Water every 14 to 21 days, but only if the soil is completely dry. When in doubt, wait another week.

Why is my Eve's Pin Cactus base turning mushy?