How often should I water my African Fig?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top two inches of soil feel dry. The exact timing depends on your home's temperature and light.

Can I save a plant with root rot?

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

Is my African Fig suffering from root rot? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a musty odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Gently lift the plant to inspect the roots.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves are drooping or yellowing, and the soil has a sour or musty smell. The roots may look mushy and dark instead of firm and white.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any mushy, black roots. Repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil and reduce your watering frequency.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the bottom of the pot or the saucer for days after watering. The soil remains heavy and compacted.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes. If it does not, repot the plant into a container that allows excess water to drain away freely.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your african fig

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 mostly black and mushy, the plant is in critical condition. If only a few roots are affected, you can likely save it with proper care.

Stopping it coming back

Always check that the top two inches of soil are dry before you add more water. Never let the pot sit in a saucer of standing water.

African Fig: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your african fig 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 African Fig?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top two inches of soil feel dry. The exact timing depends on your home's temperature and light.
Can I save a plant with root rot?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, use fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while it recovers.

Is my African Fig suffering from root rot?