Can I save a plant with root rot?

If the rot is caught early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If the stem is mushy, the plant cannot be saved.

How often should I water my Flaming Katy?

Water every 10 to 21 days depending on your home temperature. Always check that the soil is dry before adding more water.

Kalanchoe: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it feels damp.
Check the bottom of the pot for standing water.
Gently pull the plant to see if the roots are firm or slimy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The stems feel soft or mushy, and the leaves turn yellow or brown.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the plant is in a decorative pot without drainage, move it to a pot with holes.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools at the bottom of the pot after watering.
What to do: Repot the plant into a well draining succulent mix. Ensure the pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your kalanchoe

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 black or mushy at the base, the plant is likely beyond saving. If only a few leaves are affected, you can often save it by drying out the soil.

Stopping it coming back

Only water your Flaming Katy when the top 2 inches of soil are completely dry. Always use a pot with drainage holes.

Kalanchoe: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your kalanchoe 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 the rot is caught early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If the stem is mushy, the plant cannot be saved.
How often should I water my Flaming Katy?: Water every 10 to 21 days depending on your home temperature. Always check that the soil is dry before adding more water.

Why is my Flaming Katy drooping and looking mushy?