Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, yes. Trim the dead roots and repot in fresh soil, then water sparingly until you see new growth.

Does this plant need to be in a swampy mix?

It likes to be damp, but not waterlogged. Think of the soil like a wrung-out sponge.

Creeping buttercup: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes at the bottom.
Gently pull the plant out to inspect the root color.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: The soil stays wet for too long and the plant looks limp even though the dirt is soaked. The roots will appear brown and mushy instead of firm and white.
What to do: Repot the plant into fresh, well-draining soil mix. Trim away any black or slimy roots with clean scissors before replanting.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and drop off while the soil remains constantly saturated. You might notice a foul, swampy odor coming from the pot.
What to do: Let the top inch of soil dry out slightly before watering again. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.

Find out what's wrong with your creeping 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 stems are turning black at the base, the rot is advanced and the plant may not recover. Some wilting is normal if the plant is just adjusting to a new spot.

Stopping it coming back

Use a potting mix that retains moisture but allows for airflow. Never let the pot sit in a saucer full of standing water.

Keep your creeping buttercup healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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, yes. Trim the dead roots and repot in fresh soil, then water sparingly until you see new growth.
Does this plant need to be in a swampy mix?: It likes to be damp, but not waterlogged. Think of the soil like a wrung-out sponge.

Why is my creeping buttercup wilting and smelling?