Can I reuse the old soil?

No, discard the old soil as it likely contains the fungi or bacteria that caused the rot. Use fresh, sterile potting mix for the recovery.

How long until the plant recovers?

Recovery can take several weeks or even months. Be patient and keep the plant in bright, indirect light while it grows new roots.

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

Check these first

Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Gently lift the plant to inspect the roots for mushiness.
Check if the pot has adequate drainage holes.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The soil remains soggy and the plant shows signs of decline like yellowing leaves or wilting. The roots will look brown, mushy, and smell bad.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away all soft, black roots with sterilized scissors. Repot the plant into fresh, well draining potting mix.
Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The plant is watered too frequently, leaving the roots sitting in stagnant water. This prevents the roots from getting the oxygen they need to survive.
What to do: Adjust your watering schedule to wait until the top inch of soil is dry. Ensure you empty the saucer after watering so the plant does not sit in water.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your peacock 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 roots are mostly black and mushy, the plant may be too far gone to save. If you find healthy white roots remaining, there is a good chance for recovery.

Stopping it coming back

Use a light, airy soil mix and never let your plant sit in standing water. Always check the soil moisture before adding more water.

Peacock plant: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your peacock plant 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 reuse the old soil?: No, discard the old soil as it likely contains the fungi or bacteria that caused the rot. Use fresh, sterile potting mix for the recovery.
How long until the plant recovers?: Recovery can take several weeks or even months. Be patient and keep the plant in bright, indirect light while it grows new roots.

How do I fix root rot on my peacock plant?