Can a plant recover from root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early and remove all the decaying roots. It may take a few weeks for the plant to show signs of new growth.

How often should I check the roots?

You only need to check the roots if the plant is showing signs of distress. Frequent repotting can stress the plant unnecessarily.

Never Never Plant: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger two inches into the soil to check for saturation.
Lift the plant out of its pot to inspect the root color.
Ensure the pot has holes at the bottom for excess water to escape.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and droop even when the soil feels wet. The stems may feel mushy at the base near the soil line.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any black, slimy roots. Repot into fresh, well draining potting mix and ensure the container has drainage holes.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: The soil stays soggy for more than a week after watering. You might notice a sour or swampy smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Add perlite or orchid bark to your soil mix to increase aeration. Always empty the saucer under the pot so the plant never sits in standing water.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your never never plant

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 mushy and the roots are black and falling apart, the plant is in serious trouble. A slight yellowing of one leaf is usually not a sign of rot.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil is dry and never let the pot sit in a tray of water.

Never Never Plant: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your never never plant 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 a plant recover from root rot?: Yes, if you catch it early and remove all the decaying roots. It may take a few weeks for the plant to show signs of new growth.
How often should I check the roots?: You only need to check the roots if the plant is showing signs of distress. Frequent repotting can stress the plant unnecessarily.

How do I fix root rot on my Ctenanthe setosa?