Should I repot my plant?

Only repot if the soil is heavy and holding too much water. If the roots are mushy, trim away the decayed parts before replanting in fresh, airy soil.

How often should I water?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but always test the soil first. If it is still damp, wait a few more days.

Bottlebrush: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger an inch into the soil to check for dampness.
Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Check if the plant is sitting in a saucer of water.

Likely causes

Poor drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels soggy or swampy even days after watering. The leaves may turn yellow or brown before dropping off.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and allow the top 2 to 3 inches of soil to dry out completely. If the plant is in a container, ensure the drainage holes are not blocked.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The plant shows signs of wilting despite the soil being damp. The roots may appear mushy or dark if you dig down slightly.
What to do: Adjust your schedule to water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Ensure you are watering deeply but infrequently, usually every 7 to 14 days.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your bottlebrush

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 feel soft or the plant is collapsing, the damage may be too far gone. If only a few leaves are affected, you can likely save it by correcting the moisture.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the soil moisture before adding more water. Use well draining soil mixes if you are growing your Bottlebrush in a container.

Bottlebrush: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your bottlebrush 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 repot my plant?: Only repot if the soil is heavy and holding too much water. If the roots are mushy, trim away the decayed parts before replanting in fresh, airy soil.
How often should I water?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but always test the soil first. If it is still damp, wait a few more days.

Why is my Bottlebrush looking wilted and sad?