Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. Keep it in a bright spot to encourage recovery.

How often should I water to avoid rot?

Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Never let the plant sit in a tray of water.

Trailing Lantana: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture level deep in the pot.
Ensure the pot has functional drainage holes.
Inspect the roots for a mushy texture or dark color.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The stems look mushy and the leaves turn yellow or brown and wilt despite wet soil.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out. If the plant is in a pot, ensure it has drainage holes and remove any standing water in the saucer.
Poorly Draining Soil
Possible
How to tell: The soil stays soggy for more than a week after watering.
What to do: Repot the plant into a well draining potting mix with added perlite. This helps oxygen reach the roots and prevents water from sitting.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your trailing lantana

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 and mushy at the base, the rot may be too advanced to save the plant. If the roots are still firm, it can recover.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the top inch of soil before watering and use a pot with good drainage.

Trailing Lantana: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your trailing lantana 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 you catch it early, you can trim away the mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. Keep it in a bright spot to encourage recovery.
How often should I water to avoid rot?: Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Never let the plant sit in a tray of water.

How do I fix root rot in my trailing lantana?