Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early and the roots are still firm, you can save it by repotting. If the entire root system is mushy, it is usually too late.

How often should I check for rot?

Check the soil moisture every time you water. If the soil is still wet after 7 days, you are likely watering too often.

Three-nerved sandwort: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes that are not blocked.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or mushy, and the soil smells sour or swampy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and check the roots. If they are brown and mushy, trim the dead parts and repot the plant in fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a potting mix that allows excess water to escape easily.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your three-nerved sandwort

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 turning black at the base and the plant is collapsing, it is a serious sign of rot. It is normal for a few lower leaves to die off as the plant matures.

Stopping it coming back

Always empty the saucer after watering and ensure the soil is damp but never soggy.

Three-nerved sandwort: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your three-nerved sandwort 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 and the roots are still firm, you can save it by repotting. If the entire root system is mushy, it is usually too late.
How often should I check for rot?: Check the soil moisture every time you water. If the soil is still wet after 7 days, you are likely watering too often.

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