Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots and repot in dry soil, then wait a week before watering again.

How often should I water?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top half of the soil feels dry. Do not stick to a strict calendar.

Baby Rubber Plant: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Press your finger two inches into the soil to check for dampness.
Lift the plant out of the pot to inspect the roots for a foul smell or mushy texture.
Verify that the pot has functioning drainage holes.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The stems feel mushy near the soil line and the leaves turn yellow or black.
What to do: Stop watering immediately. Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any brown or slimy roots with clean scissors. Repot into fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the saucer or the soil stays soggy for more than two weeks.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a succulent or cactus mix to improve airflow around the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your baby rubber plant

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 is soft and mushy all the way up, the plant may be too far gone to save. It is normal for the plant to lose a few lower leaves if it was slightly overwatered once.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top half of the soil is completely dry before adding more water. Never let your plant sit in a saucer full of water.

Baby Rubber Plant: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your baby rubber plant 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?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots and repot in dry soil, then wait a week before watering again.
How often should I water?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top half of the soil feels dry. Do not stick to a strict calendar.

Why is my Baby Rubber Plant rotting at the base?