Can I save a plant with root rot?

You can try to save it by trimming away the mushy, black roots with sterile scissors. Repot it in fresh, dry soil and water sparingly until it shows new growth.

How often should I check the roots?

You only need to check the roots if the plant shows signs of distress like wilting or yellowing. Otherwise, let the roots be.

How do I fix root rot on my cornflower? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Gently pull the plant to see if the roots are firm or mushy.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and the stems feel soft or mushy at the base.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top two inches of soil dry out. If the soil is waterlogged, repot the plant into fresh, well-draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. If it does not, move the plant to a container that allows excess water to escape.

Find out what's wrong with your cornflower

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 roots are black and slimy, the plant is in serious trouble. It is normal for roots to be firm and light-colored.

Stopping it coming back

Use a well-draining potting mix and always empty the saucer under the pot after watering. Never let the plant sit in standing water.

Keep your cornflower healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with root rot?: You can try to save it by trimming away the mushy, black roots with sterile scissors. Repot it in fresh, dry soil and water sparingly until it shows new growth.
How often should I check the roots?: You only need to check the roots if the plant shows signs of distress like wilting or yellowing. Otherwise, let the roots be.

How do I fix root rot on my cornflower?