Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots with sterilized scissors. Repot it into fresh, dry soil and keep it in a spot with good airflow.

How often should I water to avoid this?

Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Kidneyleaf buttercup: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger 2 inches into the soil to feel for dampness.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Check the bottom of the pot to ensure water is not trapped in the saucer.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look yellow or limp even when the soil is wet, and the base of the stem feels mushy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the plant does not perk up in 2 days, gently remove it from the pot to inspect the roots for dark, slimy sections.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil or leaks out very slowly after watering.
What to do: Repot the plant into a container with large drainage holes. Use a fresh, well draining potting mix that contains perlite to help air reach the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your kidneyleaf buttercup

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 stem base is black and mushy, the plant is likely beyond saving. It is normal for the plant to look slightly thirsty if you wait until the very end of the 7 day cycle.

Stopping it coming back

Always empty the saucer 15 minutes after watering so the roots never sit in standing water.

Kidneyleaf buttercup: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your kidneyleaf buttercup 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 black, mushy roots with sterilized scissors. Repot it into fresh, dry soil and keep it in a spot with good airflow.
How often should I water to avoid this?: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Why is my kidneyleaf buttercup wilting and smelling?