Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early and remove all the decayed roots, the plant can recover. It will need time to grow a new root system.

Should I fertilize a plant with root rot?

No, never fertilize a sick plant. Wait until it shows signs of new, healthy growth before adding any fertilizer.

Calathea Orbifolia: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Gently lift the plant out of its pot to inspect the root color.
Sniff the roots to detect a foul, swampy smell.
Check if the soil is heavy and compacted.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays wet for more than 10 days and the plant shows yellowing leaves. The roots will look brown, mushy, and smell bad.
What to do: Remove the plant from the pot and trim away all mushy, black roots with sterilized scissors. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.
Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil is constantly saturated, leading to a lack of oxygen for the roots. You might see mold growing on the soil surface.
What to do: Allow the soil to dry out significantly between waterings. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Find out what's wrong with your calathea orbifolia

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 is in critical condition. If there are still firm, white roots left, it has a good chance of recovery.

Stopping it coming back

Use a chunky, well-draining potting mix and always empty the saucer after watering.

Keep your calathea orbifolia 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.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with root rot?: If you catch it early and remove all the decayed roots, the plant can recover. It will need time to grow a new root system.
Should I fertilize a plant with root rot?: No, never fertilize a sick plant. Wait until it shows signs of new, healthy growth before adding any fertilizer.

How do I fix root rot on my Goeppertia orbifolia?