Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while it recovers.

How often should I water?

Every 2 to 4 days is typical, but always check the soil first. Never water on a strict schedule if the soil is still damp.

Cannabis: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger 3 centimeters into the soil to check for moisture.
Smell the soil for a sour or swampy odor.
Check if your pot has adequate drainage holes.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves will look wilted even when the soil is wet. If you pull the plant gently from the pot, the roots will look brown, mushy, and smell bad.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out significantly. If the rot is advanced, you may need to repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil and trim away the dead, slimy roots.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits on top of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot does not have enough holes at the bottom to let excess water escape.
What to do: Ensure your pot has plenty of drainage holes. Add perlite to your soil mix in the future to improve aeration and drainage.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your cannabis

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 plant is drooping and the roots are dark brown or black, the situation is critical. If the stem near the soil line is also turning brown, the plant may not recover.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry. Use a light, airy soil mix that allows water to pass through easily.

Cannabis: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your cannabis 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?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while it recovers.
How often should I water?: Every 2 to 4 days is typical, but always check the soil first. Never water on a strict schedule if the soil is still damp.

Why is my cannabis plant drooping and the roots look brown?