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 most of the root system is already mushy, it is usually best to start over.

How often should I water my Matgrass?

Aim for every 7 to 14 days depending on your home environment. Always test the soil moisture with your finger before adding more water.

Why is my Matgrass suffering from 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 soggy deep down.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The base of the plant feels mushy and the soil smells sour or swampy. You might see yellowing blades that eventually turn brown and collapse.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the soil is heavy, repot the plant into a mix with added perlite or sand for better drainage.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after you water. The pot may lack holes or be sitting in a saucer of standing water.
What to do: Ensure your pot has functional drainage holes at the bottom. Always empty the saucer 15 minutes after watering so the plant never sits in a puddle.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your matgrass

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 base of the plant is black and mushy, the rot is advanced and the plant may not recover. Some browning at the very tips is normal as old growth dies back.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch and always use a well draining potting mix.

Matgrass: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your matgrass 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 and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If most of the root system is already mushy, it is usually best to start over.
How often should I water my Matgrass?: Aim for every 7 to 14 days depending on your home environment. Always test the soil moisture with your finger before adding more water.

Why is my Matgrass suffering from root rot?