How often should I water my Fatsia?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait a few more days.

Will my plant recover if I stop watering?

If the damage is minor, the plant will bounce back once the soil dries out. If the roots are mostly dead, you may need to repot it.

Is my Fatsia suffering from root rot? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger 2 inches into the soil to check for dampness.
Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
Lift the pot to see if water is trapped in the saucer.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves will turn yellow and droop, and the soil will smell sour or swampy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the soil is waterlogged, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil and trim away any mushy, black roots.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the saucer for days after watering, or the pot lacks drainage holes.
What to do: Ensure your pot has holes at the bottom. Empty the saucer 15 minutes after watering so the plant never sits in standing water.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your japanese aralia

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 feel soft or mushy at the base, the rot may have spread too far to save the plant. Yellowing leaves are a warning sign that you must act now.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil is dry, and always use a pot with drainage holes.

Japanese aralia: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your japanese aralia 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 Fatsia?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait a few more days.
Will my plant recover if I stop watering?: If the damage is minor, the plant will bounce back once the soil dries out. If the roots are mostly dead, you may need to repot it.

Is my Fatsia suffering from root rot?