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Sulphur cinquefoil · Potentilla recta

Why is my Potentilla recta showing signs of root rot?

Root rot is less common for this plant, as it prefers well drained soil and full sun. It usually happens when the soil stays soggy for too long, so check your drainage first.

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root rot on a plant
Photo: Ninjatacoshell, CC BY-SA 3.0

Check these first

  1. Feel the top inch of soil to see if it is wet.
  2. Check the bottom of the pot for standing water.
  3. Inspect the roots for a soft or mushy texture.

Likely causes

  1. Overwatering

    Most likely

    How to tell: The foliage will look wilted or yellow even when the soil is wet. You might also notice a sour smell coming from the pot.

    What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the plant does not perk up, gently remove it from the pot to inspect the roots for mushy, brown sections.

  2. Poor Drainage

    Possible

    How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot may lack holes or the soil mix is too dense.

    What to do: Repot the plant into a container with drainage holes using a sandy or gritty potting mix. Ensure you do not leave the pot sitting in a saucer of standing water.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sulphur cinquefoil

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.

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When to worry

If the stems feel mushy at the base or the plant is collapsing, it is likely too late to save. Some minor wilting after a heavy rain is normal for this plant.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Use a fast draining soil mix to keep the roots happy.

Sulphur cinquefoil: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sulphur cinquefoil 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with root rot?
Yes, if you catch it early. Trim away the black, mushy roots with sterilized scissors and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.
How often should I water my Sulphur cinquefoil?
Water every 7 to 14 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

More problems with Sulphur cinquefoil

Back to the Sulphur cinquefoil guide

This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.