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 the damage is extensive, it is usually better to start over.

How often should I water my marjoram?

Water every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch is still damp, wait another day or two.

Sweet Marjoram: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil feels soggy or swampy.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Inspect the roots for a dark or slimy appearance.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and the stems feel mushy at the base.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the pot has no drainage, move the plant to a container with holes.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering.
What to do: Repot the plant into a well draining mix containing perlite or sand. Ensure the pot has adequate holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sweet marjoram

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 all the way to the soil line, the plant is likely beyond saving. A little yellowing on the bottom leaves is normal as the plant ages.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Use a pot with good drainage holes to prevent standing water.

Sweet Marjoram: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sweet marjoram 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 the damage is extensive, it is usually better to start over.
How often should I water my marjoram?: Water every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch is still damp, wait another day or two.

Why is my sweet marjoram wilting and the soil smells bad?