Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, wash the remaining healthy ones, and repot in fresh, dry soil.

How often should I water?

Aim for every 7 to 10 days, but always check the soil dryness first rather than following a strict calendar.

Swiss Cheese Plant: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger 2 inches into the soil to check for dampness.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Lift the pot to see if water is pooling in the drainage tray.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown and the stems feel mushy at the base.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 3 inches of soil dry out. If the soil is soggy, repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil and trim away any black, slimy roots.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the bottom of the pot or the saucer for days after watering.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a chunky soil mix with perlite or orchid bark to help excess water escape quickly.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your swiss cheese plant

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 and mushy, the rot is advanced and requires immediate repotting. It is normal for the plant to need less water during the winter months.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top 2 inches of soil are dry before watering again. Use a pot with drainage holes to keep roots happy.

Swiss Cheese Plant: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your swiss cheese plant 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?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, wash the remaining healthy ones, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
How often should I water?: Aim for every 7 to 10 days, but always check the soil dryness first rather than following a strict calendar.

Why is my Swiss Cheese Plant getting root rot?