Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early enough. Remove the plant, wash away the old soil, trim the dead roots, and repot in fresh, dry soil.

How often should I water to prevent this?

Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait another day or two before adding more water.

European dewberry: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil moisture level at least 2 inches deep.
Check the drainage holes for any blockages.
Smell the soil for signs of decay.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and wilt even though the soil feels wet. You might notice a sour or musty smell coming from the soil surface.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out completely. If the plant is in a pot, ensure it has large drainage holes and empty the saucer after every watering.
Poor Soil Drainage
Possible
How to tell: The soil remains heavy and wet for many days after watering. The roots appear dark, mushy, or slimy when inspected.
What to do: Repot the plant into a well draining mix containing perlite or coarse sand. Trim away any black or mushy roots with sterilized scissors before replanting.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your european dewberry

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 canes are turning black at the base or the plant is collapsing, the rot is likely advanced. Some leaf yellowing is normal during seasonal transitions, but mushy roots are always a sign of trouble.

Stopping it coming back

Always let the top layer of soil dry out slightly between waterings and use a porous, well draining potting mix.

European dewberry: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european dewberry 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?: Yes, if you catch it early enough. Remove the plant, wash away the old soil, trim the dead roots, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
How often should I water to prevent this?: Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait another day or two before adding more water.

Why is my European dewberry suffering from root rot?