Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, use fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while it recovers.

How often should I water?

Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait another day.

Why is my Ixora showing signs of root rot? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger into the soil to check for sogginess.
Lift the pot to see if water is sitting in the tray.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves will turn yellow and wilt even if the soil is wet. If you pull the plant out, the roots will look mushy, dark, and smell like decay.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the rot is severe, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil and trim away the black, dead roots.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the saucer or the pot does not have holes, keeping the roots submerged. The plant will look stunted and lose its vigor.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a high quality potting mix that contains perlite or bark to help water drain away from the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your jungle geranium

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 feel soft at the base or the plant is collapsing, it is likely too late to save. Minor yellowing can often be reversed by letting the soil dry out.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water. Never let your Ixora sit in a saucer full of standing water.

Jungle Geranium: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your jungle geranium 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, use fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while it recovers.
How often should I water?: Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait another day.

Why is my Ixora showing signs of root rot?