Can I save a citrus tree with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, change the soil, and adjust your watering schedule to keep the roots from staying wet.

How often should I water my citrus?

Water every 3 to 7 days depending on the heat and light. Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.

Why are my citrus tree's roots rotting? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil 2 inches deep to see if it is soggy.
Check the bottom of the pot to ensure water is flowing out freely.
Smell the soil for any signs of decay.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and drop, and the soil stays wet for more than a week. 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 soil is heavy, repot the tree into a fast draining mix containing perlite or bark. Ensure the pot has large drainage holes at the bottom.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The roots look brown and mushy instead of firm and white.
What to do: Remove the tree from its container to inspect the root ball. Trim away any black or slimy roots with clean shears. Repot into a container with fresh, well draining citrus potting soil.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your citrus

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 entire canopy is wilting and the trunk feels soft near the base, the damage may be too severe to save the tree. It is normal for a few older leaves to yellow and fall as the tree adjusts to a new environment.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Use a pot with plenty of drainage holes to prevent water from pooling around the roots.

Citrus: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your citrus 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 citrus tree with root rot?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, change the soil, and adjust your watering schedule to keep the roots from staying wet.
How often should I water my citrus?: Water every 3 to 7 days depending on the heat and light. Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.

Why are my citrus tree's roots rotting?