Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Feel the top inch of soil for moisture.
- Check if the pot has drainage holes.
- Inspect the bulb base for soft, mushy tissue.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The soil feels constantly damp or muddy, and the base of the plant feels mushy to the touch.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the soil stays wet for more than 2 days, repot the bulb into a fresh, well draining cactus mix.
Poor Drainage
PossibleHow to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil or sits in the saucer beneath the pot.
What to do: Ensure your pot has at least one large hole at the bottom. Empty the saucer 15 minutes after watering so the bulb never sits in standing water.
Find out what's wrong with your crowpoison
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.
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When to worry
If the bulb feels soft or smells foul, it is likely too late to save it. A firm bulb can usually recover if you adjust your watering schedule.
Stopping it coming back
Only water when the top inch of soil is dry, and always use a porous soil mix designed for bulbs or succulents.
Crowpoison: root rot? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your crowpoison 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Can I save a rotting bulb?
- If the rot is limited to a few roots, you can trim them away and repot in dry soil. If the bulb itself is mushy, it is best to discard it.
- How often should I water?
- Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always test the soil with your finger before adding more water.
More problems with Crowpoison
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.