Can I save a plant with root rot?

If the rot is minor, you can trim away the affected roots and repot in fresh, dry soil. If the majority of the root system is mushy, it is often best to start over.

How do I know if the soil is draining well?

Dig a small hole and fill it with water. If it takes more than a few hours to drain, your soil is likely too heavy.

Southern dewberry: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil an inch deep to see if it is soggy.
Check the container or planting site for standing water.
Inspect the base of the stems for mushy or dark tissue.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves are yellowing or wilting despite the soil feeling wet. The soil stays muddy for days after watering.
What to do: Amend the soil with organic matter like compost to improve aeration and drainage. If the plant is in a container, ensure it has drainage holes and is not sitting in a saucer of water.
Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The base of the stems may look soft or discolored. The plant shows signs of stress despite frequent watering.
What to do: Wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Adjust your schedule to every 3 to 7 days depending on the heat and evaporation rates.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your southern 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 stems are turning black or mushy at the base, the rot is advanced and the plant may not recover.

Stopping it coming back

Plant in well draining soil and always check the moisture level before adding more water.

Southern dewberry: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your southern 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?: If the rot is minor, you can trim away the affected roots and repot in fresh, dry soil. If the majority of the root system is mushy, it is often best to start over.
How do I know if the soil is draining well?: Dig a small hole and fill it with water. If it takes more than a few hours to drain, your soil is likely too heavy.

Why is my Southern dewberry showing signs of root rot?