Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can save it by trimming the bad roots and repotting. If the roots are completely black and mushy, it is best to take healthy stem cuttings to start over.

How often should I water my Hoya?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait a few more days.

Wax vine: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger an inch into the soil to feel for moisture.
Lift the pot to see if it feels heavy with water.
Check the drainage hole for standing water.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and mushy, and the stems feel soft or squishy near the base. The soil may smell slightly sour or musty.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the plant does not improve, remove it from the pot, trim away any black or slimy roots, and repot in fresh, well draining soil.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the bottom of the decorative pot or the soil stays soggy for more than 2 weeks. The plant looks sad even if you are careful with your watering schedule.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a chunky soil mix with added perlite or bark to allow excess water to escape quickly.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your wax vine

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 stems are turning brown and mushy at the base, the rot has likely traveled up the plant. This is often fatal, so act quickly to save healthy cuttings.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a pot with drainage holes and never let the plant sit in a saucer of standing water. Wait until the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.

Wax vine: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wax vine 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?: If you catch it early, you can save it by trimming the bad roots and repotting. If the roots are completely black and mushy, it is best to take healthy stem cuttings to start over.
How often should I water my Hoya?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait a few more days.

Why is my Hoya linearis wilting and turning yellow?