Can I save a palm with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in fresh soil. If the main stem is soft, the plant is likely beyond saving.

How often should I check the soil?

Check the soil every 2 days since this palm prefers to stay consistently damp. If the top inch feels dry, it is time to water.

Royal Raphia Palm: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a foul odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Feel if the soil is muddy rather than just damp.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly soggy or swampy to the touch. You might notice a sour or musty smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the plant is in a decorative pot without holes, move it to a container that drains freely.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface for a long time after you water. The soil stays wet for more than 4 days.
What to do: Repot the palm into a well draining mix containing perlite or coarse sand. Ensure the pot has large holes at the bottom.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your royal raphia palm

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 base of the stem feels soft or mushy, the rot has likely spread too far. It is normal for the oldest bottom fronds to yellow slightly as the plant grows.

Stopping it coming back

Always empty the saucer under your pot 30 minutes after watering. Use a chunky, airy soil mix to prevent compaction.

Royal Raphia Palm: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your royal raphia palm 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 palm with root rot?: If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in fresh soil. If the main stem is soft, the plant is likely beyond saving.
How often should I check the soil?: Check the soil every 2 days since this palm prefers to stay consistently damp. If the top inch feels dry, it is time to water.

Why is my Royal Raphia Palm getting root rot?