Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in fresh, dry soil. If the damage has reached the stems, it is usually too late.

How often should I water my Heather?

Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Why is my Heather plant wilting and dying? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it feels wet or muddy.
Inspect the bottom of the pot to ensure drainage holes are not blocked.
Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The foliage turns dull and mushy, and the soil smells sour or swampy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the plant is in a pot, ensure it has drainage holes and is not sitting in a saucer of water.
Poorly draining soil
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface for a long time after you pour it.
What to do: Repot your Heather into a sandy, acidic potting mix that drains quickly. Avoid heavy garden soil that holds too much moisture.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your heather

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 are black and mushy at the base, the plant is likely beyond saving. It is time to replace it.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.

Heather: root rot? Check yours with a photo

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

Can I save a plant with root rot?: If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in fresh, dry soil. If the damage has reached the stems, it is usually too late.
How often should I water my Heather?: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Why is my Heather plant wilting and dying?