Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, repot in dry soil, and be very careful with your watering schedule moving forward.

How often should I water to prevent rot?

Aim for every 7 to 10 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait a few more days.

Chinese Money Plant: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger an inch into the soil to check for dampness.
Lift the plant out of the pot to inspect the roots for a brown or slimy appearance.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and soft, and the stem feels mushy near the soil line.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the plant is severely affected, repot it into fresh, well draining soil and trim away any black, slimy roots.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools at the bottom of the pot after you water, and the soil stays wet for more than two weeks.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a potting mix amended with perlite to improve airflow around the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your chinese money 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 brown all the way up, the plant is likely beyond saving. It is normal for the oldest bottom leaves to yellow occasionally, but mushy stems are always a red flag.

Stopping it coming back

Always empty the saucer after watering so your plant never sits in standing water. Only water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Chinese Money Plant: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your chinese money 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, repot in dry soil, and be very careful with your watering schedule moving forward.
How often should I water to prevent rot?: Aim for every 7 to 10 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait a few more days.

Why is my Chinese Money Plant rotting at the base?