Can I save a plant with root rot?

If there are still firm, white roots remaining, you have a good chance. Trim the dead parts and repot in dry, fresh soil.

How often should I check the soil?

Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. If the top inch is still damp, wait another day or two before watering again.

Common polypody: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Gently lift the plant to see if the roots look black or mushy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The fronds turn yellow or brown and collapse, while the soil remains soggy. The base of the plant may feel mushy.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any black, mushy roots with sterilized scissors. Repot in fresh, well draining soil and ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools at the bottom of the pot or the soil stays saturated for more than a week. The plant never seems to dry out.
What to do: Ensure your pot has holes at the bottom. If it does not, repot the fern into a container that allows excess water to escape.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common polypody

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 roots are mostly black and mushy, the plant may be beyond saving. Act quickly as soon as you notice the smell or persistent sogginess.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Never let your fern sit in a saucer of standing water.

Common polypody: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common polypody 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 there are still firm, white roots remaining, you have a good chance. Trim the dead parts and repot in dry, fresh soil.
How often should I check the soil?: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. If the top inch is still damp, wait another day or two before watering again.

Why does my Common polypody look wilted and smell bad?