How often should I water?

Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always check the soil dryness first.

Can I save a tree with root rot?

If caught early, you can save it by improving drainage and reducing water. If the roots are black and mushy, it is often too late.

Is my Jacaranda suffering from root rot? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil 2 inches deep.
Check if the soil smells sour or swampy.
Ensure the tree is not sitting in a puddle.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and drop while the soil remains wet to the touch.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 3 inches of soil dry out. If the soil is heavy, mix in perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools around the base of the tree after rain or irrigation.
What to do: Create a mound of soil around the base to encourage water runoff. Avoid planting in low spots where water collects.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your jacaranda

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 trunk feels soft or mushy near the ground, the rot may be too advanced to save the tree.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the soil is dry and ensure the planting site has excellent drainage.

Jacaranda: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your jacaranda 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

How often should I water?: Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always check the soil dryness first.
Can I save a tree with root rot?: If caught early, you can save it by improving drainage and reducing water. If the roots are black and mushy, it is often too late.

Is my Jacaranda suffering from root rot?