Can I save a plant with root rot?

If the rot is only on a few roots, you can trim them away and repot in fresh soil. If the stem is already mushy, it is best to start over.

How often should I water?

Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Vinca: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it is soggy.
Inspect the stem base for dark or mushy spots.
Check that your pot has drainage holes.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays wet for more than 7 days and the stems feel mushy near the base.
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 empty the saucer after watering.
Phytophthora blight
Possible
How to tell: You see dark, water soaked lesions on the stems and the plant wilts even when the soil is moist.
What to do: Remove and discard the infected plant immediately to stop the spread. Do not compost it, as the fungus persists in soil and debris.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your vinca

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 stem is mushy or black at the soil line, the plant is likely beyond saving.

Stopping it coming back

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

Vinca: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your vinca 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?: If the rot is only on a few roots, you can trim them away and repot in fresh soil. If the stem is already mushy, it is best to start over.
How often should I water?: Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Guides to these causes

Phytophthora

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