Can I use a fungicide to fix root rot?

Fungicides are rarely effective once the roots are already rotting. Improving drainage is the only real solution.

How do I know if the soil drains well enough?

Dig a hole 12 inches deep and fill it with water. If it takes more than a few hours to drain, your soil is likely too heavy.

Sawara cypress: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is constantly wet.
Examine the base of the trunk for soft or discolored bark.
Dig slightly to inspect if the roots are firm or mushy.

Likely causes

Phytophthora infection
Most likely
How to tell: The tree wilts even when the soil is moist. The roots will look dark, mushy, and smell foul.
What to do: Improve soil drainage immediately by creating a mound or installing drainage tiles. If the infection is severe, the plant may need to be removed to prevent spread.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The soil remains wet for more than 14 days. The foliage loses its luster and begins to droop.
What to do: Stop watering until the top inch of soil is completely dry. Adjust your schedule to water only every 7 to 14 days depending on the weather.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sawara cypress

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

This is a critical issue that often leads to plant death. If the trunk base is soft, the plant is likely beyond saving.

Stopping it coming back

Plant your cypress in well draining soil and avoid letting water pool around the base.

Sawara cypress: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sawara cypress 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 use a fungicide to fix root rot?: Fungicides are rarely effective once the roots are already rotting. Improving drainage is the only real solution.
How do I know if the soil drains well enough?: Dig a hole 12 inches deep and fill it with water. If it takes more than a few hours to drain, your soil is likely too heavy.

Guides to these causes

Phytophthora

Is my Sawara cypress suffering from root rot?