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Dovefoot cranesbill · Geranium molle

Why is my Geranium molle wilting?

It is less common for this plant to suffer from root rot unless it is sitting in soggy soil for too long. Check the soil moisture levels and the drainage of your pot immediately.

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root rot on a plant
Photo: Ninjatacoshell, CC BY-SA 3.0

Check these first

  1. Feel the soil to see if it is soggy.
  2. Check the bottom of the pot for standing water.
  3. Smell the soil for any signs of decay.

Likely causes

  1. Overwatering

    Possible

    How to tell: The leaves will look yellow and limp, and the soil will feel constantly wet or swampy. You might notice a sour smell coming from the pot.

    What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top inch of soil dry out completely. If the plant does not perk up, repot it into fresh, well draining soil and trim away any black, mushy roots.

  2. Poor Drainage

    Possible

    How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot may lack sufficient drainage holes at the bottom.

    What to do: Ensure your pot has at least one large hole at the bottom. Use a potting mix amended with perlite to improve aeration and drainage.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your dovefoot 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.

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When to worry

If the stems are turning black at the base or the plant is collapsing, the rot may be too advanced to save. Normal wilting from thirst will recover quickly after a drink.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the top inch of soil before watering and ensure your pot drains freely after every soak.

Dovefoot cranesbill: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your dovefoot 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with root rot?
If you catch it early and trim the damaged roots, yes. Wash the roots gently and repot in dry, fresh soil.
How often should I water to prevent this?
Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Never water on a strict schedule if the soil is still damp.

More problems with Dovefoot cranesbill

Back to the Dovefoot cranesbill guide

This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.