Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. You must remove the damaged roots, use fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while the plant recovers.

How often should I water to avoid this?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the soil is dry to the touch. Never water on a strict schedule if the soil is still damp.

Mouse-ear hawkweed: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is soggy or waterlogged.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Inspect the roots for a slimy texture and dark brown or black color.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or mushy, and the base of the plant feels soft to the touch. If you pull the plant out, the roots will look dark, slimy, and smell like decay.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and remove the plant from its pot or garden spot. Trim away all black, mushy roots with clean scissors and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Poor drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The plant shows signs of wilting even when the soil feels damp.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Mix in extra perlite or coarse sand to the potting mix to improve airflow and drainage.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mouse-ear hawkweed

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 entire root system is black and mushy, the plant is likely too far gone to save. If you catch it while some roots are still firm and white, you have a good chance of recovery.

Stopping it coming back

Always let the soil dry out significantly between waterings and use a gritty, fast-draining soil mix.

Mouse-ear hawkweed: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mouse-ear hawkweed 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. You must remove the damaged roots, use fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while the plant recovers.
How often should I water to avoid this?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the soil is dry to the touch. Never water on a strict schedule if the soil is still damp.

How do I fix root rot in my mouse-ear hawkweed?