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Powderpuff · Mimosa strigillosa

Why is my Sunshine Mimosa dying from root rot?

Root rot is a common issue for Sunshine Mimosa when the soil stays soggy for too long. Check your soil drainage first to see if water is pooling around the roots.

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root rot on a plant
Photo: Ninjatacoshell, CC BY-SA 3.0

Check these first

  1. Feel the soil moisture 2 inches deep.
  2. Check if the pot has drainage holes.
  3. Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.

Likely causes

  1. Poor Drainage

    Most likely

    How to tell: The soil feels heavy and wet for days after watering. The base of the plant may look mushy or dark.

    What to do: Amend your soil with sand or perlite to improve drainage. If the plant is in a container, ensure it has large drainage holes at the bottom.

  2. Overwatering

    Most likely

    How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and drop while the soil remains constantly damp. You might notice a sour smell coming from the dirt.

    What to do: Wait until the top 2 inches of soil are dry before watering again. Reduce your watering frequency to every 10 to 14 days during the cooler months.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your powderpuff

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.

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When to worry

If the stems are black and mushy at the base, the rot has likely spread too far to save the plant. Some yellowing is normal if you have had heavy rain recently.

Stopping it coming back

Always plant your Sunshine Mimosa in well draining soil and avoid letting it sit in standing water.

Powderpuff: root rot? Check yours with a photo

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Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with root rot?
If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If the damage is extensive, it is usually best to start over.
How often should I water my Sunshine Mimosa?
Once established, water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always check that the soil has dried slightly before adding more water.

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This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.