How often should I water my Star of Bethlehem?

Water every 7 to 14 days during the growing season. Always check that the soil is dry before you add more water.

Can I save a bulb that has started to rot?

If only a few roots are affected, trim them off and repot in dry soil. If the bulb is soft, it is usually best to discard it to prevent spreading fungus to other plants.

Star of Bethlehem: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil feels soggy to the touch.
Inspect the drainage holes for blockages.
Gently lift the bulb to see if it feels firm or squishy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The base of the plant feels mushy and the leaves start to yellow or collapse.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the bulb feels soft or smells bad, remove the plant and trim away any dark, mushy roots before repotting in fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil long after you have finished watering.
What to do: Ensure your pot has holes at the bottom. Use a cactus or bulb mix that contains perlite or sand to improve airflow around the bulb.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your star of bethlehem

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 bulb itself is soft and mushy throughout, it is likely too late to save it. Some minor root browning can be corrected by adjusting your watering schedule.

Stopping it coming back

Always allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out before adding more water. Use a pot with excellent drainage to keep the bulb healthy.

Star of Bethlehem: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your star of bethlehem 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 my Star of Bethlehem?: Water every 7 to 14 days during the growing season. Always check that the soil is dry before you add more water.
Can I save a bulb that has started to rot?: If only a few roots are affected, trim them off and repot in dry soil. If the bulb is soft, it is usually best to discard it to prevent spreading fungus to other plants.

Why is my Star of Bethlehem rotting at the base?