Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can repot the plant in fresh, dry soil after trimming away the mushy roots. If the rot has reached the crown, the plant may not recover.

How often should I check the soil?

Check the soil every 5 days. If it is still damp, wait a few more days before watering again.

Variegated Lilyturf: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil feels waterlogged.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Gently tug on the plant to see if it pulls away easily.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays soggy and the base of the plant looks discolored or soft.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and ensure the pot has drainage holes. If the plant is in the ground, improve soil drainage by adding organic matter.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and collapse at the base.
What to do: Only water when the top inch of soil is dry. Allow the soil to dry out significantly before adding more water.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your variegated lilyturf

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 base of the plant is mushy and dark, it is likely too late to save that section. Remove the affected parts to prevent the fungus from spreading.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the soil moisture before watering and ensure your plant is not sitting in standing water.

Variegated Lilyturf: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your variegated lilyturf 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?: If you catch it early, you can repot the plant in fresh, dry soil after trimming away the mushy roots. If the rot has reached the crown, the plant may not recover.
How often should I check the soil?: Check the soil every 5 days. If it is still damp, wait a few more days before watering again.

Why is my Variegated Lilyturf wilting and looking sick?