Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early and trim away the dead, mushy roots, you can often save it. Repot it into fresh, dry soil and keep it in a bright spot.

How often should I water to avoid rot?

Check your plant every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Sticky mouse-ear chickweed: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a sour odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Feel if the soil is soggy or waterlogged.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The stems turn mushy or black near the soil line and the plant collapses. You might notice a sour or swampy smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the plant is in a pot without drainage, move it to one that has holes. Trim away any black or slimy roots with clean scissors.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface for a long time after you water. The soil stays heavy and dense instead of feeling light and airy.
What to do: Repot your plant into a fresh mix that includes perlite or sand to improve airflow. Ensure your container has plenty of drainage holes at the bottom.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sticky mouse-ear chickweed

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 stems are already mushy and black, the plant is likely too far gone to save. It is normal for the plant to wilt slightly if it is just thirsty, but it should perk up quickly after a drink.

Stopping it coming back

Always let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. Use a well draining soil mix to keep roots healthy.

Sticky mouse-ear chickweed: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sticky mouse-ear chickweed 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?: If you catch it early and trim away the dead, mushy roots, you can often save it. Repot it into fresh, dry soil and keep it in a bright spot.
How often should I water to avoid rot?: Check your plant every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

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