Can I save a tree with root rot?

If the damage is caught early, you can improve drainage and reduce watering to help the tree recover. If the roots are mostly dead, the tree will likely need to be removed.

How often should I water my Italian Cypress?

Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always check the soil depth before adding more water.

Italian Cypress: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil around the base of the tree.
Check for a foul or swampy odor near the roots.
Observe if the tree is leaning or unstable.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays muddy for days after watering and the tree foliage begins to yellow or drop.
What to do: Improve the soil drainage by amending the surrounding area with organic matter. If the tree is in a low spot, consider installing a drain or mounding the soil.
Excessive Watering
Possible
How to tell: The base of the tree smells sour or musty and the roots appear black and slimy.
What to do: Reduce your watering frequency immediately. Only water when the top 3 inches of soil are dry to the touch.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your italian 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

If the roots are black and mushy, the tree may be beyond saving. Root rot is often fatal once it reaches the main root system.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure the tree is planted in well draining soil and never allow it to sit in standing water.

Italian Cypress: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your italian 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 save a tree with root rot?: If the damage is caught early, you can improve drainage and reduce watering to help the tree recover. If the roots are mostly dead, the tree will likely need to be removed.
How often should I water my Italian Cypress?: Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always check the soil depth before adding more water.

How do I know if my Italian Cypress has root rot?