Can I save a tree with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the dead, mushy roots with sterilized shears and repot the tree in fresh, dry soil. Keep it in a bright spot and water sparingly until it shows signs of new growth.

How do I know if my soil drains well enough?

The water should pass through the pot within seconds of pouring. If it pools on the surface for a long time, your soil is too dense and needs more aeration.

Rainbow eucalyptus: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil feels soggy or swampy to the touch.
Smell the soil for a foul or rotting odor.
Examine the roots for mushy, brown, or slimy textures.

Likely causes

Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: The soil stays wet for more than a week, and the leaves may turn yellow or wilt despite the soil being damp. The roots will look mushy and dark instead of firm and white.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out completely. If the soil is heavy, repot the tree into a well draining mix containing perlite or coarse sand.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The plant is being watered too frequently, preventing the roots from getting oxygen. You might notice a sour or swampy smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Adjust your schedule to water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure the pot has large drainage holes and never leave the tree sitting in a saucer of standing water.

Find out what's wrong with your rainbow eucalyptus

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

Root rot is serious if the leaves are turning brown and dropping rapidly, as this indicates the root system is no longer able to support the tree. If the roots are entirely black and mushy, the plant may be beyond saving.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a fast draining soil mix and ensure your pot has adequate drainage holes. Only water when the top layer of soil has dried out slightly.

Keep your rainbow eucalyptus healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Can I save a tree with root rot?: If you catch it early, you can trim away the dead, mushy roots with sterilized shears and repot the tree in fresh, dry soil. Keep it in a bright spot and water sparingly until it shows signs of new growth.
How do I know if my soil drains well enough?: The water should pass through the pot within seconds of pouring. If it pools on the surface for a long time, your soil is too dense and needs more aeration.

Why is my Rainbow Eucalyptus failing to thrive?