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Check these first
- Feel the soil two inches deep to see if it is soggy.
- Check the drainage holes for blockages.
- Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The foliage turns yellow or brown and wilts despite the soil feeling damp. Roots will appear dark, mushy, and smell foul.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the plant is in a pot, ensure it has drainage holes and move it to a spot with better airflow.
Poor Drainage
PossibleHow to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The plant sits in a saucer filled with standing water.
What to do: Repot the lavender into a sandy, fast draining potting mix designed for Mediterranean plants. Always empty the saucer under the pot within 15 minutes of watering.
Find out what's wrong with your french lavender
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.
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When to worry
If the base of the stem feels soft or mushy, the plant is likely beyond saving. Some wilting is normal on very hot afternoons but should recover by morning.
Stopping it coming back
Always allow the soil to dry out significantly between waterings and use a gritty, well draining soil mix.
French lavender: root rot? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your french lavender 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.
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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 base is already soft, it is best to start over with a new plant.
- How often should I water my French lavender?
- Water every 7 to 14 days depending on your climate. Always wait until the top few inches of soil are completely dry before adding more water.
More problems with French lavender
- Why are there dark spots on my French lavender leaves?
- Why is my French lavender getting so leggy?
- Why is my French lavender not producing any flowers?
- Why are my French lavender leaves turning yellow?
- Why do my French lavender leaves have brown tips?
- Why is my French lavender drooping?
- Why is my French lavender losing leaves?
- What are these bugs on my French lavender?
Back to the French lavender guide
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.