Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the damaged roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while it recovers.

How often should I water?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but always test the soil first. If it is still damp after 14 days, wait longer.

Mexican fleabane: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger an inch into the soil to check for dampness.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Look at the base of the stems for mushy or dark tissue.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and the plant looks droopy even when the soil feels damp. The base of the stems may look mushy or dark.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out. If the soil is soggy, repot the plant into fresh, well-draining soil and trim away any black, mushy roots.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot might lack holes or the soil mix is too dense.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Mix perlite or coarse sand into your potting soil to improve aeration and drainage.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mexican fleabane

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 at the base, the rot may be too advanced to save. Yellowing leaves are a warning sign that you need to adjust your watering schedule.

Stopping it coming back

Always let the top inch of soil dry out completely before you water again. Never let the plant sit in a saucer of standing water.

Mexican fleabane: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mexican fleabane 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with root rot?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the damaged roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while it recovers.
How often should I water?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but always test the soil first. If it is still damp after 14 days, wait longer.

Why is my Mexican Fleabane wilting and yellowing?