Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim away the mushy, dark roots with clean scissors and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.

How often should I water to avoid this?

Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.

Philadelphia fleabane: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger one inch into the soil to check for dampness.
Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
Gently lift the plant to see if the roots look brown and slimy instead of firm and white.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The base of the plant feels mushy and the soil smells sour or swampy. Leaves may wilt even though the dirt is wet.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the plant is in a pot, ensure it has drainage holes and dump out any water sitting in the saucer.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after you water. The plant looks stunted and unhappy despite your care.
What to do: Repot the plant into a container with plenty of drainage holes. Use a well draining potting mix that includes perlite to help air reach the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your philadelphia 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 roots are black and mushy, the plant is in critical condition. It is normal for a few older roots to die off, but widespread decay is a major problem.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Ensure your pot has excellent drainage to prevent water from pooling.

Philadelphia fleabane: root rot? Check yours with a photo

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

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 away the mushy, dark roots with clean scissors and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.
How often should I water to avoid this?: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.

Why is my Philadelphia fleabane suffering from root rot?