Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful with your watering schedule afterward.

How often should I water?

Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

How do I fix root rot on my Galium album? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Inspect the drainage holes for blockages.
Smell the soil for any signs of decay.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and wilt even though the soil is wet. You might notice a sour smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the plant does not recover in a few days, repot it into fresh, well draining soil and trim away any mushy, black roots.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot lacks holes or the soil is too dense.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Mix in perlite or coarse sand to your potting mix to improve aeration and drainage.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your upright hedge bedstraw

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 are turning black at the base or the plant is collapsing, the rot is likely too advanced to save. Normal leaf drop can happen, but mushy stems are a sign of a major problem.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again, and never let the plant sit in a saucer of standing water.

Upright hedge bedstraw: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your upright hedge bedstraw 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 dead roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful with your watering schedule afterward.
How often should I water?: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

How do I fix root rot on my Galium album?