Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Feel the soil to see if it is wet or soggy.
- Check the bottom of the pot for standing water.
- Inspect the roots for a dark or mushy appearance.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The base of the stems may look mushy or discolored. You might also notice a sour smell coming from the soil.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the soil remains waterlogged, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil and trim away any black or slimy roots.
Poor Drainage
PossibleHow to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after you water. The pot might lack sufficient holes at the bottom.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom to let excess water escape. If the pot is solid, move the grass to a container that allows for proper airflow and drainage.
Find out what's wrong with your soft brome
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.
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When to worry
If the stems are turning black at the base and falling over, the plant is likely too far gone. It is normal for the plant to look slightly thirsty if you wait until the top inch of soil is dry.
Stopping it coming back
Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Always use a pot with drainage holes to keep the roots healthy.
Soft brome: root rot? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your soft brome 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
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 damaged roots and repot in fresh, dry soil.
- How often should I water my soft brome?
- Water every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil moisture first. If the top inch is still damp, wait another day.
More problems with soft brome
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.