Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, wash the remaining healthy ones, and repot in fresh, dry soil.

How often should I water to avoid this?

There is no set schedule, but every 7 to 10 days is a good starting point. Always check the soil dryness before you pour any water.

Polka dot begonia: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger into the soil to see if it is soggy.
Lift the pot to check if water is trapped in the saucer.
Gently tip the plant out of its pot to inspect the root color.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves will look droopy and yellow, even if the soil feels wet. If you pull the plant out, the roots will look brown, mushy, and smell bad.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the rot is severe, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil and trim away the black, slimy roots.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water sits in the bottom of the pot or the saucer for days after watering. The plant stays constantly damp, leading to root decay.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Never let your plant sit in a saucer of standing water for more than 30 minutes.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your polka dot begonia

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 feels soft or mushy near the soil line, the rot has likely moved into the main structure of the plant. This is a critical stage where survival is difficult.

Stopping it coming back

Use a chunky, well draining potting mix and always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.

Polka dot begonia: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your polka dot begonia 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?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, wash the remaining healthy ones, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
How often should I water to avoid this?: There is no set schedule, but every 7 to 10 days is a good starting point. Always check the soil dryness before you pour any water.

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