Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the damaged roots and repot in fresh, dry soil.

How do I know if the soil is too wet?

If it feels like a damp sponge and doesn't dry out within a few days, it is likely holding too much water.

Daisy fleabane: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it stays wet for more than a week.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Gently lift the plant to see if the roots are mushy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves will turn yellow and droop even if the soil is wet. The roots may look mushy or dark instead of firm and white.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top inch of soil dry out completely. If the rot is advanced, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil after trimming away dead roots.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The plant looks stunted and fails to grow despite being in full sun.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Mix in perlite or coarse sand to improve the soil structure for better airflow.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your daisy 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

Worry if the base of the stem turns black or mushy, as this indicates advanced rot. If the plant is just wilting slightly, it may just need a schedule adjustment.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the top inch of soil before watering every 3 to 7 days. Use a pot with good drainage to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.

Daisy fleabane: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your daisy 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 the damaged roots and repot in fresh, dry soil.
How do I know if the soil is too wet?: If it feels like a damp sponge and doesn't dry out within a few days, it is likely holding too much water.

Is my Daisy fleabane suffering from root rot?