Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early and remove the damaged roots, you can often save the plant. If the entire root system is mushy, it is usually too late.

How often should I water to avoid rot?

Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Wax Begonia: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Gently lift the plant to see if the roots are firm and white or mushy and brown.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The stems turn mushy or black at the base and the leaves start to drop off.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the damage is severe, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil after trimming away any black, slimy roots.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering.
What to do: Ensure your pot has holes at the bottom for excess water to escape. Use a potting mix specifically designed for containers to improve aeration.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your wax 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 stems are turning black and mushy at the base, the plant is in serious trouble. It is normal for a few lower leaves to drop as the plant matures.

Stopping it coming back

Always empty the saucer under your pot after watering so the plant never sits in standing water.

Wax Begonia: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wax 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?: If you catch it early and remove the damaged roots, you can often save the plant. If the entire root system is mushy, it is usually too late.
How often should I water to avoid rot?: Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Why is my Wax Begonia showing signs of root rot?