How often should I water?

Water every 5 to 10 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch is still damp, wait a few more days.

Can I save a plant with root rot?

If only a few roots are affected, you can trim them and repot in dry soil. If the stems are already mushy, it is usually best to start over with a new plant.

Common Purslane: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil an inch deep to see if it is wet.
Check the bottom of the pot for drainage holes.
Gently pull the plant to see if the roots are firm or mushy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The stems look mushy or translucent near the base. The soil feels constantly wet and may have a sour smell.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the rot is advanced, you may need to repot the plant into fresh, well draining soil after trimming away black, mushy roots.
Poor drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil after watering. The pot lacks holes at the bottom, trapping moisture inside.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes. If it does not, move the plant to a container that allows excess water to escape.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common purslane

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 stems are turning black or mushy at the base, the rot has likely reached the main structure. This is often fatal for the plant.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before you add more water. Use a gritty, fast draining soil mix.

Common Purslane: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common purslane 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

How often should I water?: Water every 5 to 10 days, but always check the soil first. If the top inch is still damp, wait a few more days.
Can I save a plant with root rot?: If only a few roots are affected, you can trim them and repot in dry soil. If the stems are already mushy, it is usually best to start over with a new plant.

Why is my common purslane wilting and rotting?