Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If the rot has reached the crown, the plant will likely not recover.

How often should I water my balloon flower?

Aim to water every 5 to 7 days, keeping the soil consistently moist but never soggy.

Balloon flower: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil 2 inches deep to see if it is wet.
Inspect the base of the stems for soft or discolored tissue.
Check if the pot has functional drainage holes.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly soggy and the base of the stems looks dark or mushy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out. If the plant is in a container, ensure it has drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface for a long time after you water the plant.
What to do: Amend the soil with perlite or coarse sand to improve aeration. If the plant is in the ground, consider transplanting it to a raised bed or a spot with better drainage.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your balloon flower

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 plant is collapsing and the roots are black or smell foul, it is likely too late to save it.

Stopping it coming back

Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry and ensure your planting site has excellent drainage.

Balloon flower: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your balloon flower 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 mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If the rot has reached the crown, the plant will likely not recover.
How often should I water my balloon flower?: Aim to water every 5 to 7 days, keeping the soil consistently moist but never soggy.

Why is my balloon flower wilting and the roots look mushy?