Can I save a rosemary with root rot?

If the roots are still firm and white, you can save it by repotting into fresh, dry soil and trimming away any black, mushy roots. If the entire root system is mushy, it is usually too late.

How often should I water my rosemary?

Water every 7 to 21 days depending on the heat and light. Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.

Why is my rosemary plant wilting and dying? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Stick your finger two inches into the soil to check for dampness.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Lift the pot to see if it feels unusually heavy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly wet or swampy, and the base of the stem may look mushy or dark.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the pot lacks drainage holes, move the plant to a container with plenty of holes at the bottom.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface for a long time after watering, or the soil stays damp for more than three weeks.
What to do: Repot your rosemary into a sandy, fast draining potting mix designed for cacti or succulents. Add perlite or grit to the soil to improve aeration.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your rosemary

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 soft, brown, or smells like rot, the plant is likely beyond saving. Some minor wilting after a heavy rain is normal if the plant recovers quickly.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a gritty, well draining soil mix and wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again.

Rosemary: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your rosemary 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 rosemary with root rot?: If the roots are still firm and white, you can save it by repotting into fresh, dry soil and trimming away any black, mushy roots. If the entire root system is mushy, it is usually too late.
How often should I water my rosemary?: Water every 7 to 21 days depending on the heat and light. Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.

Why is my rosemary plant wilting and dying?