How often should I water my Echeveria?

Water every 10 to 21 days, but only when the soil is bone dry. Never water on a strict schedule without checking the soil first.

Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early and remove the rotted parts, you can often save the plant. If the rot has reached the main stem, it is often too late.

Echeveria: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is wet or soggy.
Inspect the roots for a mushy texture or foul smell.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn translucent or yellow and feel mushy to the touch. The base of the stem may turn black or brown.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any black, slimy roots. Repot it in dry, well draining cactus soil and wait a week before watering again.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: The soil stays wet for more than a few days after watering. The pot lacks holes at the bottom.
What to do: Switch to a terracotta pot with a drainage hole. Use a gritty soil mix designed for succulents to ensure water passes through quickly.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your echeveria

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 stem is black and mushy all the way to the leaves, the plant may be too far gone to save. Act quickly if you see any signs of decay.

Stopping it coming back

Always let the soil dry out completely between waterings, which usually takes 10 to 21 days.

Echeveria: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your echeveria 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

How often should I water my Echeveria?: Water every 10 to 21 days, but only when the soil is bone dry. Never water on a strict schedule without checking the soil first.
Can I save a plant with root rot?: If you catch it early and remove the rotted parts, you can often save the plant. If the rot has reached the main stem, it is often too late.

Why is my Echeveria collapsing and turning mushy?