Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, let the plant air dry for a day, and repot in dry soil.

How often should I water to avoid rot?

Water every 14 to 21 days, but only if the soil is bone dry. Never water on a strict schedule if the soil is still damp.

Why is my Zebra plant rotting at the base? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Poke your finger deep into the soil to feel for moisture.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Gently wiggle the plant to see if it is loose in the soil.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves feel mushy or soft, and the base of the plant may turn dark or translucent.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the plant is very mushy, remove it from the pot, trim away any black or slimy roots, and repot in fresh, dry succulent soil.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: The soil stays damp for more than a few days after watering.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus mix to prevent water from sitting around the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your zebra 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 base of the plant is mushy or smells bad, the rot has likely spread too far to save the plant. It is normal for the very lowest, oldest leaf to shrivel up occasionally.

Stopping it coming back

Only water your Zebra plant when the soil is completely dry from top to bottom, which usually takes 14 to 21 days.

Zebra plant: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your zebra 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 save a plant with root rot?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, let the plant air dry for a day, and repot in dry soil.
How often should I water to avoid rot?: Water every 14 to 21 days, but only if the soil is bone dry. Never water on a strict schedule if the soil is still damp.

Why is my Zebra plant rotting at the base?