Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can save it by removing the rotten roots and repotting in fresh soil. It will take time for the plant to recover.

Do I need to wash the roots?

Yes, gently rinse the roots with lukewarm water to remove old, infected soil. This helps ensure you are starting fresh.

How do I fix root rot on my Calathea? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a sour odor.
Gently lift the plant to inspect the roots.
Check if the soil is heavy and compacted.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The soil remains soggy and the plant looks wilted despite being watered. You might notice a musty or rotten smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Repot the plant into fresh, well-draining soil. Trim away any mushy, black, or slimy roots with sterile scissors.
Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The stems become soft and the plant stops growing. The leaves may turn yellow or brown and collapse.
What to do: Reduce your watering frequency significantly. Ensure the pot has holes and never let the plant sit in a saucer of standing water.

Find out what's wrong with your calathea

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 roots are mostly black and mushy, the plant is in danger. If you can only find a few healthy white roots, there is still a chance to save it.

Stopping it coming back

Use a chunky, well-draining potting mix and always empty the saucer after watering. Never let your Calathea sit in water.

Keep your calathea healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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, you can save it by removing the rotten roots and repotting in fresh soil. It will take time for the plant to recover.
Do I need to wash the roots?: Yes, gently rinse the roots with lukewarm water to remove old, infected soil. This helps ensure you are starting fresh.

How do I fix root rot on my Calathea?