Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Check the soil moisture with your finger.
- Inspect the drainage holes for blockages.
- Gently lift the plant to see if the tubers feel firm or soft.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The stems feel mushy at the soil line and the leaves turn yellow or collapse. The soil may smell sour or swampy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the plant is severely affected, remove it from the pot, trim away black or slimy roots, and repot in fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
PossibleHow to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot lacks holes at the bottom.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Use a potting mix amended with perlite to improve airflow around the tubers.
When to worry
If the entire base of the plant is mushy and smells bad, the tubers may be too far gone to save. It is normal for the plant to go dormant in winter, so do not mistake natural die back for rot.
Stopping it coming back
Always allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings and never let the pot sit in standing water.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your caladium.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are 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 dry, fresh soil.
- How often should I water?
- Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil moisture first.
More problems with Caladium
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.