Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early and the tuber is still firm, you can save it by repotting into dry soil and cutting back on water. If the tuber is soft or smells bad, it is likely too late.

How often should I water my Tuberous Begonia?

Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Begonia: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger one inch into the soil to check for moisture.
Lift the pot to see if it feels heavy with trapped water.
Check the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly wet or swampy, and the stems near the base look mushy or dark.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the soil stays wet for more than a week, repot the plant into fresh, well draining potting mix and trim away any black, slimy roots.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the saucer for hours after you water the plant.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Always empty the saucer 15 minutes after watering so the tuber does not sit in standing water.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your 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 turn black and mushy at the base, the rot may have already reached the tuber, which is often fatal.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil is dry, and always use a light, airy potting mix designed for containers.

Begonia: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your 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 the tuber is still firm, you can save it by repotting into dry soil and cutting back on water. If the tuber is soft or smells bad, it is likely too late.
How often should I water my Tuberous Begonia?: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Why is my Tuberous Begonia drooping and wilting?