Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the damaged roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful with your watering schedule afterward.

How often should I water my black henbane?

Water every 5 to 10 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Never let the plant sit in standing water.

Black henbane: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
Check if the soil is soggy or waterlogged.
Inspect the roots for a brown or slimy appearance.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The plant wilts even when the soil is damp, and the base of the stem may feel soft or mushy. You might notice a sour or swampy smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the plant is in a pot without drainage, move it to a container with holes. Trim away any black or slimy roots with clean scissors.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The soil feels heavy and dense rather than light and airy.
What to do: Repot the plant into a fresh, well draining soil mix that includes perlite or coarse sand. Ensure the pot has plenty of drainage holes at the bottom. Avoid using a decorative pot that traps water at the base.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your black henbane

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 entirely black, the plant may be too far gone to save. It is normal for the plant to look slightly thirsty before you water it, but it should bounce back quickly.

Stopping it coming back

Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water. Use a potting mix designed for good drainage to keep the roots healthy.

Black henbane: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your black henbane 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 damaged roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful with your watering schedule afterward.
How often should I water my black henbane?: Water every 5 to 10 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Never let the plant sit in standing water.

Why is my black henbane suffering from root rot?