Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, yes. Trim away the black, mushy roots, repot in fresh soil, and water sparingly until new growth appears.

How often should I water to prevent rot?

Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always test the soil with your finger before adding more water.

How do I fix root rot in my Ballota nigra? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil an inch below the surface to check for dampness.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Gently lift the plant to see if the roots appear dark or slimy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and wilt even though the soil feels wet. The base of the stem may look mushy or discolored.
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 mix with added perlite or grit to improve drainage.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot may lack sufficient drainage holes at the bottom.
What to do: Ensure the pot has large drainage holes and is not sitting in a saucer of standing water. If the pot is solid, drill holes or move the plant to a container that allows water to escape freely.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your black horehound

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 soft and mushy, the rot may have already spread too far to save the plant. It is normal for the plant to look slightly thirsty right before its scheduled watering day.

Stopping it coming back

Always allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings and use a well draining potting mix.

Black horehound: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your black horehound 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, yes. Trim away the black, mushy roots, repot in fresh soil, and water sparingly until new growth appears.
How often should I water to prevent rot?: Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always test the soil with your finger before adding more water.

How do I fix root rot in my Ballota nigra?