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 with your watering schedule afterward.

How often should I water?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top inch of soil is dry. Always check the soil first rather than following a strict calendar.

Why is my Carolina cranesbill wilting? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is soggy.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Gently lift the plant to inspect the root color.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and the plant wilts even though the soil feels wet. The roots will look mushy and dark instead of firm and white.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top inch of soil dry out. If the damage is severe, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil and trim away the rotten roots.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil or takes a long time to drain away. This keeps the roots suffocated and prone to decay.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Mix in perlite or coarse sand to improve the soil structure if it stays wet for more than 14 days.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your carolina cranesbill

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 base of the stem feels soft or mushy, the rot may have already spread too far. A little wilting on a hot day is normal, but it should recover by evening.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Use a gritty soil mix that allows air to reach the roots.

Carolina cranesbill: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your carolina cranesbill 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, use fresh soil, and be very careful with your watering schedule afterward.
How often should I water?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top inch of soil is dry. Always check the soil first rather than following a strict calendar.

Why is my Carolina cranesbill wilting?