Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots and repot into dry, fresh soil, then wait a few days before watering lightly.

How often should I water?

Every 7 to 14 days is standard, but always check the soil dryness first. The environment in your home dictates the actual schedule.

Song of India: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger two inches into the soil to check for moisture.
Lift the pot to see if water is sitting in the saucer.
Gently pull the plant out of its pot to inspect the root color.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays soggy and the base of the stem feels soft or mushy. The leaves may turn yellow or brown and droop suddenly.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out. If the roots are black and mushy, trim them away with sterile scissors and repot the plant in fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the bottom of the pot or the drainage hole is blocked. The plant never seems to dry out between waterings.
What to do: Ensure your pot has holes at the bottom. Use a chunky potting mix with perlite added to help air reach the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your 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 roots are dark, slimy, and smell like rot, the situation is critical. Healthy roots should be firm and light in color.

Stopping it coming back

Always let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. Never let your plant sit in a saucer full of water.

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

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your 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 into dry, fresh soil, then wait a few days before watering lightly.
How often should I water?: Every 7 to 14 days is standard, but always check the soil dryness first. The environment in your home dictates the actual schedule.

Why is my Song of India's soil smelling bad?