Can I save a plant with root rot?

If the rot is caught early, you can trim away the mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh soil. If the majority of the roots are black and slimy, it is usually best to start over.

How often should I water my Lobelia?

Keep the soil evenly moist, which usually means watering every 2 to 4 days. Always check the soil moisture with your finger before adding more water.

Indian tobacco: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Feel the soil to see if it is saturated.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown and the stems feel mushy near the soil line. The soil will smell sour or swampy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the plant is in a pot without drainage, move it to one that has holes.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The roots look dark and slimy when inspected.
What to do: Repot your plant into a fresh, well draining potting mix. Ensure the container has plenty of drainage holes at the bottom.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your indian tobacco

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 stems are black and mushy at the base, the plant is likely too far gone to save. It is normal for the plant to wilt slightly if it misses a watering, but it should perk up quickly after a drink.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry to the touch, and never let the pot sit in a saucer of standing water.

Indian tobacco: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your indian tobacco 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 the rot is caught early, you can trim away the mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh soil. If the majority of the roots are black and slimy, it is usually best to start over.
How often should I water my Lobelia?: Keep the soil evenly moist, which usually means watering every 2 to 4 days. Always check the soil moisture with your finger before adding more water.

Why is my Lobelia inflata wilting and dying?