How often should I water?

Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Can I save a plant with root rot?

If caught early, you can save it by letting the soil dry out, but severe rot is usually fatal.

Love in a Mist: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger an inch into the soil to check for moisture.
Check the drainage holes of your pot to ensure they are clear.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly wet and the base of the stem may look mushy or discolored.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the plant is in a pot, ensure the drainage holes are not blocked.
Poor soil drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after you water.
What to do: Amend the soil with perlite or sand to improve drainage if you are planting in the ground. If in a container, repot into a well-draining potting mix.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your love in a mist

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 stem base is soft and brown, the plant is likely beyond saving and should be removed.

Stopping it coming back

Always check the soil moisture before adding more water and ensure your planting site has excellent drainage.

Love in a Mist: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your love in a mist 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

How often should I water?: Water every 3 to 7 days, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Can I save a plant with root rot?: If caught early, you can save it by letting the soil dry out, but severe rot is usually fatal.

Why is my Love-in-a-mist wilting and yellowing?