Should I water the soil every day?

No, the soil should only be watered when it begins to dry out, typically every 7 to 14 days.

Is it normal for the bottom leaves to yellow?

If it is just one or two old bottom leaves, it is likely natural aging. If multiple leaves are yellowing at once, it is likely a watering issue.

Bromélia: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is soggy or waterlogged.
Check if the pot has drainage holes at the bottom.
Gently lift the plant to inspect the roots for a brown or mushy appearance.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly wet or swampy, and the base of the plant may feel soft or mushy. The roots will look brown and slimy instead of firm and white.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any brown, mushy roots with sterilized scissors. Repot the bromeliad into fresh, well draining potting mix and wait a few days before watering again.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the bottom of the pot or the saucer for days after watering. This keeps the roots suffocated and prevents oxygen from reaching them.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Always empty the saucer 30 minutes after watering so the plant never sits in standing water.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your bromélia

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 base of the plant is soft and smells like decay, the rot may have reached the core, which is often fatal.

Stopping it coming back

Only water the soil when it feels dry to the touch, and always keep the central cup filled with fresh water instead of relying on soil moisture.

Bromélia: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your bromélia 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

Should I water the soil every day?: No, the soil should only be watered when it begins to dry out, typically every 7 to 14 days.
Is it normal for the bottom leaves to yellow?: If it is just one or two old bottom leaves, it is likely natural aging. If multiple leaves are yellowing at once, it is likely a watering issue.

Why are my bromeliad leaves turning yellow and mushy?