Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots and repot in fresh soil, then water sparingly until new growth appears.

How often should I water to avoid rot?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch is still damp, wait a few more days.

Bicolor Song of India: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a musty odor.
Gently pull the plant from the pot to inspect the roots.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes at the bottom.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The plant wilts and the stems feel mushy at the base. The soil smells sour or moldy.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any black, mushy roots with clean scissors. Repot into a container with drainage holes using a fresh, airy potting mix.
Watering Too Frequently
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and the plant stops growing. The soil surface never gets a chance to dry out.
What to do: Wait until the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water. Use a pot that is sized appropriately for the root ball to prevent excess moisture retention.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your bicolor song of india

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 base of the stem is soft and mushy, the rot has likely spread too far to save the plant. If only a few roots are affected, you can usually save it.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a well draining soil mix and never let your plant sit in a saucer of standing water.

Bicolor Song of India: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your bicolor song of india 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?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots and repot in fresh soil, then water sparingly until new growth appears.
How often should I water to avoid rot?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch is still damp, wait a few more days.

How do I fix root rot on my Dracaena bicolor?