Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, wash the remaining healthy ones, and repot in fresh soil.

How often should I water my Motherwort?

Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. It likes to be moist but never soggy.

Motherwort: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Inspect the roots for a slimy or black appearance.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn mushy or brown, and the soil smells sour or swampy. You might notice the plant wilting even when the soil feels damp.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the plant is in a pot, remove it to check for slimy, black roots and trim away any that are mushy. Repot into fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after you water. The pot lacks holes or is sitting in a saucer full of standing water.
What to do: Ensure your pot has functional drainage holes at the bottom. Never let the plant sit in a saucer of water for more than 30 minutes after watering. Use a potting mix amended with perlite to improve airflow.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your motherwort

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 stem base feels soft or squishy, the rot has likely spread too far to save the plant. It is time to start over with a new cutting.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the soil moisture with your finger before watering, and only water when the top inch feels dry.

Motherwort: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your motherwort 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?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, wash the remaining healthy ones, and repot in fresh soil.
How often should I water my Motherwort?: Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. It likes to be moist but never soggy.

Why is my Motherwort showing signs of root rot?