Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the mushy roots and repot in fresh, dry soil. If the rot has reached the main stem, the plant will likely not survive.

How often should I water my ice plant?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but only if the soil is completely dry. In winter, you can water even less frequently.

Delosperma: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil two inches deep to see if it is damp.
Check the bottom of the pot to ensure water is draining freely.
Inspect the base of the stems for soft or black tissue.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The base of the plant feels soft or mushy, and the leaves may look translucent or yellow.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the soil stays soggy, repot the plant into a gritty, well draining cactus mix.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after you water.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Use a succulent specific soil mix that contains perlite or pumice to improve airflow.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your delosperma

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 black and mushy all the way to the base, the plant is likely beyond saving. A little wilting after a long dry spell is normal and usually recovers after a drink.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the soil is bone dry before watering again. Use a pot with plenty of drainage holes to prevent standing water.

Delosperma: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your delosperma 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, you can trim away the mushy roots and repot in fresh, dry soil. If the rot has reached the main stem, the plant will likely not survive.
How often should I water my ice plant?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but only if the soil is completely dry. In winter, you can water even less frequently.

Why is my ice plant wilting and turning mushy?