Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the rotten roots, clean the pot, and repot in fresh, dry soil.

Does jasmine need a special soil?

A standard, well-draining potting mix is fine. Adding a handful of perlite helps ensure the roots get enough air.

How do I know if my jasmine has root rot? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Check if the pot is sitting in standing water.
Gently lift the plant to see if the roots are firm or mushy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and wilt even though the soil is wet. If you pull the plant out, the roots will look mushy, brown, or black.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out. If the damage is severe, repot the plant into fresh, well-draining soil after trimming away the dead roots.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the bottom of the pot or the saucer for days. The soil stays heavy and dense, suffocating the roots.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a potting mix amended with perlite to improve aeration.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your jasmine

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

Root rot is serious and can kill the plant quickly if left untreated. If the roots are mostly black and slimy, the plant may not be salvageable.

Stopping it coming back

Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water. Never let your jasmine sit in a saucer full of water.

Jasmine: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your jasmine 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 rotten roots, clean the pot, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Does jasmine need a special soil?: A standard, well-draining potting mix is fine. Adding a handful of perlite helps ensure the roots get enough air.

How do I know if my jasmine has root rot?