Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots with sterilized scissors and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If the majority of the root system is damaged, it is often best to start over.

How often should I water my forget-me-not?

Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Field forget-me-not: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it feels muddy or waterlogged.
Lift the pot to check if water is trapped in the saucer.
Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The stems feel mushy at the base and the soil smells sour or swampy. Leaves may wilt even when the soil is wet.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the plant does not perk up in a few days, gently remove it from the pot to inspect the roots for dark, slimy growth.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot lacks holes or sits in a saucer full of standing water.
What to do: Ensure your pot has at least one large drainage hole at the bottom. Empty the saucer 15 minutes after watering so the roots never sit in excess water.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your field forget-me-not

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 soil line, the rot has likely reached the crown and the plant may not recover. Some minor root browning is normal if the plant has been slightly overwatered once.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water. Use a well draining potting mix to keep the roots oxygenated.

Field forget-me-not: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your field forget-me-not 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 trim away the black, mushy roots with sterilized scissors and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If the majority of the root system is damaged, it is often best to start over.
How often should I water my forget-me-not?: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Why is my field forget-me-not suffering from root rot?