Can I save a lavender plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in fresh, dry soil. If the damage is extensive, it is usually better to start over with a new plant.

How often should I water my lavender?

Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always wait until the soil is bone dry before adding more water.

Why is my lavender plant wilting and dying? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil two inches deep to see if it is wet.
Check the bottom of the pot for standing water.
Inspect the roots for a dark, mushy appearance.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The base of the plant feels mushy and the foliage turns gray or brown while wilting. The soil remains damp to the touch even a week after watering.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and move the plant to a spot with better airflow. If the soil is heavy, repot the plant into a sandy, well draining cactus mix.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil or sits in the saucer beneath the pot. The roots appear dark and slimy when inspected.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Elevate the pot on feet or gravel to allow excess water to escape freely.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your 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.

When to worry

If the entire base of the plant is black and mushy, it is likely too far gone to save. A little wilting after a hot day is normal, but it should perk up by morning.

Stopping it coming back

Always let the soil dry out completely between waterings and use a gritty, fast draining soil mix.

Lavender: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your 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.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I save a lavender plant with root rot?: If you catch it early, trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in fresh, dry soil. If the damage is extensive, it is usually better to start over with a new plant.
How often should I water my lavender?: Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always wait until the soil is bone dry before adding more water.

Why is my lavender plant wilting and dying?