Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Feel the soil to see if it is soggy or waterlogged.
- Check the bottom of the pot for standing water.
- Inspect the roots for a mushy texture or dark color.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown and the stems feel soft or mushy at the base. The soil smells sour or swampy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the damage is severe, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil and trim away any black, slimy roots.
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 aeration.
Find out what's wrong with your large bindweed
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, the rot is advanced. It is normal for a few older leaves to yellow, but widespread wilting is a sign of trouble.
Stopping it coming back
Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Ensure your pot has good drainage.
Large bindweed: root rot? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your large bindweed 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.
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Questions people ask
- Can I save a plant with root rot?
- Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots and repot in fresh soil, then be very careful with your watering schedule.
- How often should I water to avoid this?
- Water every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If it feels damp, wait a few more days.
More problems with Large bindweed
- Why are there bugs on my Large bindweed?
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Back to the Large bindweed guide
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.