Can I save a plant with root rot?

If the damage is mild, you can save it by letting the soil dry out and pruning away dead roots. If the stem is mushy, it is usually best to start over.

How often should I water sweet peas?

Water every 2 to 3 days depending on the heat. Always touch the soil first; if it feels damp, wait another day.

Why is my sweet pea wilting and yellowing? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is waterlogged or muddy.
Check the base of the stems for soft or discolored tissue.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not clogged.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and the stems look mushy or dark at the soil line. The plant will look wilted even if the soil is very wet.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the plant is in a pot, ensure the drainage holes are not blocked.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The roots will appear brown and slimy rather than firm and white.
What to do: If the plant is in the ground, amend the soil with compost to improve drainage. If in a container, repot the plant into fresh, well draining potting mix.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sweet pea

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 base of the stem has turned black or mushy, the rot has likely reached the crown and the plant may not recover. Yellowing leaves are often the first sign of trouble.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the soil moisture before watering. Ensure your sweet peas have excellent drainage and never let them sit in standing water.

Sweet Pea: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sweet pea 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 damage is mild, you can save it by letting the soil dry out and pruning away dead roots. If the stem is mushy, it is usually best to start over.
How often should I water sweet peas?: Water every 2 to 3 days depending on the heat. Always touch the soil first; if it feels damp, wait another day.

Why is my sweet pea wilting and yellowing?