Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early and remove all the decaying roots, there is a good chance the plant will recover. It will need time to grow a new root system.

How often should I water to avoid rot?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top few centimeters of soil are completely dry. Always test the soil before adding more water.

How do I fix root rot on my rubber plant? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a musty or rotting odor.
Gently lift the plant to see if the roots are firm and white or mushy and black.
Verify that your pot has functional drainage holes.

Likely causes

Excessive Watering
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks droopy and the stems near the soil line feel mushy or soft. You may also notice a sour smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any black, slimy roots with sterilized shears. Repot the plant into fresh, well-draining soil and a clean container.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water sits at the bottom of the pot or in the saucer for days. The roots suffocate because they cannot get enough oxygen.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Use a chunky potting mix that includes perlite to improve airflow around the roots.

Find out what's wrong with your rubber plant

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 stem is mushy all the way up to the leaves, the plant may be too far gone to save. Act as soon as you notice the soil staying wet for more than two weeks.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the soil moisture before watering and never let the pot sit in a saucer of standing water.

Keep your rubber plant 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 plant with root rot?: If you catch it early and remove all the decaying roots, there is a good chance the plant will recover. It will need time to grow a new root system.
How often should I water to avoid rot?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top few centimeters of soil are completely dry. Always test the soil before adding more water.

How do I fix root rot on my rubber plant?