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meadow cranesbill · Geranium pratense

Why is my meadow cranesbill suffering from root rot?

Root rot is less common for this plant, as it prefers well draining soil, but it happens if the roots sit in standing water for too long. Check the soil moisture levels and the drainage holes in your pot immediately.

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

Check these first

  1. Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger 2 inches deep.
  2. Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not clogged.
  3. Smell the soil for any signs of decay.

Likely causes

  1. Overwatering

    Most likely

    How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or wilt despite the soil feeling wet, and the roots look mushy or dark brown.

    What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the plant is in a pot, ensure the drainage holes are not blocked and remove any standing water from the saucer.

  2. Poor drainage

    Possible

    How to tell: The soil stays soggy for more than 7 days after watering, leading to a foul smell near the base of the plant.

    What to do: Repot the plant into a container with fresh, well draining potting mix. Mix in perlite or coarse sand to improve aeration and prevent future water retention.

Find out what's wrong with your meadow 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, the rot has likely spread too far to save the plant. It is normal for a few lower leaves to yellow as the plant ages.

Stopping it coming back

Always water only when the top inch of soil is dry and use a pot with excellent drainage.

Keep your meadow cranesbill 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?
Yes, if you catch it early. Trim away the mushy, dark roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.
How often should I water my meadow cranesbill?
Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

More problems with meadow cranesbill

Back to the meadow cranesbill guide

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