Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early, you can prune the dead roots and repot in fresh soil. Do not water the plant for a few days after repotting to let the roots heal.

What soil is best for balloon plants?

Use a standard, well draining potting mix that does not hold onto too much moisture.

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

Check these first

Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Feel the soil to see if it is waterlogged.
Smell the soil for a rotting odor.

Likely causes

Poor drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The soil smells sour or musty, and the plant looks wilted despite the soil being wet. The leaves may turn yellow or brown.
What to do: Repot the plant into a container with drainage holes using fresh, well draining potting mix. Trim away any mushy, black roots with clean scissors.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The soil remains wet for more than 10 days, and the base of the stem feels soft. You might see mold growing on the surface of the soil.
What to do: Wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Adjust your schedule to water only every 5 to 10 days.

Find out what's wrong with your balloon 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 stem base is mushy or the roots are completely black and slimy, the plant is likely too far gone to save. If you catch it early, the plant can recover.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a pot with drainage and never let the plant sit in a saucer of standing water.

Keep your balloon plant 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?: Yes, if you catch it early, you can prune the dead roots and repot in fresh soil. Do not water the plant for a few days after repotting to let the roots heal.
What soil is best for balloon plants?: Use a standard, well draining potting mix that does not hold onto too much moisture.

How do I fix root rot on my balloon plant?