Can I save a lily with root rot?

If you catch it early and only a few roots are affected, you can save it by trimming the rot and repotting. If the stem is soft at the base, it is usually too late.

Does the pot size matter?

Yes, a pot that is too large holds too much water, which keeps the soil wet for too long. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the root ball.

How do I fix root rot in my lily? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Tip the plant out of its pot to inspect the roots.
Smell the soil for a rotting odor.
Check if the pot has adequate drainage holes.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The plant wilts despite the soil being wet, and the base of the stem may look dark or discolored. The soil often has a sour or musty smell.
What to do: Remove the lily from its pot and gently wash away the old soil. Trim off any dark, slimy roots with sterilized shears and repot in fresh, well draining soil.
Excessive Watering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and drop quickly while the soil remains constantly saturated. The plant looks stunted and fails to grow new buds.
What to do: Adjust your watering to every 7 to 10 days, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out. Always empty the saucer under the pot after watering so the plant never sits in standing water.

Find out what's wrong with your lily

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 root system is mushy and dark, the plant is likely beyond saving. It is normal for a few roots to look brown if they are old, but they should still feel firm.

Stopping it coming back

Use a porous potting mix and never let your lily sit in a saucer of water.

Keep your lily healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Can I save a lily with root rot?: If you catch it early and only a few roots are affected, you can save it by trimming the rot and repotting. If the stem is soft at the base, it is usually too late.
Does the pot size matter?: Yes, a pot that is too large holds too much water, which keeps the soil wet for too long. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the root ball.

How do I fix root rot in my lily?