Can I save a plant with root rot?

You can save it if you catch it early by removing the rotted roots and repotting it. If the entire root system is mushy, the plant likely cannot be saved.

How often should I check the roots?

Only check the roots if the plant looks sickly or if you suspect you have been overwatering for a long time.

Wavy bittercress: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Inspect the roots to see if they are firm and white or mushy and brown.
Check if water is sitting in the saucer.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays soggy and the plant base may look discolored or soft. You might notice a musty smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top inch of soil dry out. If the damage is severe, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil after trimming away any black or mushy roots.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water pools at the bottom of the pot or the soil remains saturated for days. The plant looks yellow and stunted.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a potting mix that allows excess water to escape easily.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your wavy bittercress

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

It is serious if the roots are mostly black and mushy, as the plant may not recover. It is normal for the soil to be damp, but it should never be swampy.

Stopping it coming back

Always empty the saucer after watering and use a light, airy soil mix.

Wavy bittercress: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wavy bittercress 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?: You can save it if you catch it early by removing the rotted roots and repotting it. If the entire root system is mushy, the plant likely cannot be saved.
How often should I check the roots?: Only check the roots if the plant looks sickly or if you suspect you have been overwatering for a long time.

How do I fix root rot in my Wavy bittercress?