Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim away all damaged roots, treat with a fungicide, and repot in fresh, dry soil.

How often should I water?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the soil has dried out significantly. Always check the soil depth before adding more.

Pincushion Protea: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Check if the pot is sitting in standing water.
Examine the roots for a slimy or black appearance.

Likely causes

Poor drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks wilted despite the soil feeling damp. The base of the stem may feel soft or mushy.
What to do: Repot the plant immediately into a mix designed for Proteas or succulents. Use a pot with large drainage holes and discard any mushy, black roots.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and drop off while the soil remains consistently soggy. The plant loses its vigor quickly.
What to do: Stop watering until the top half of the soil is completely dry. Adjust your schedule to ensure you are waiting 10 to 14 days between waterings.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your pincushion protea

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 is soft or the plant is collapsing, it is likely too late to save. If caught early, repotting can often rescue the plant.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a fast draining soil mix and never let the plant sit in a saucer of water.

Pincushion Protea: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your pincushion protea 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 away all damaged roots, treat with a fungicide, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
How often should I water?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the soil has dried out significantly. Always check the soil depth before adding more.

Why is my Pincushion Protea showing signs of root rot?