Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can save it by trimming the dead roots and repotting. If the roots are completely black and slimy, it is usually too late.

How often should I check the soil?

Check the soil every 7 days. If the top inch is dry, it is time to water.

Why does my Umbrella Tree have root rot? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Gently lift the plant to see if the roots look mushy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays wet for a long time and the plant looks wilted despite having moist soil. You might also notice a musty smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out. If the roots are mushy and brown, trim them away and repot the plant in fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools at the bottom of the pot because there is no way for it to escape. The plant will look yellow and stunted.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes. If it does not, move the plant to a container that allows excess water to flow out freely.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your umbrella tree

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 feels soft or mushy near the soil line, the rot has likely spread too far to save the plant. Act quickly if you see yellowing leaves.

Stopping it coming back

Always empty the saucer after watering and never let the pot sit in standing water.

Umbrella Tree: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your umbrella tree 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 you catch it early, you can save it by trimming the dead roots and repotting. If the roots are completely black and slimy, it is usually too late.
How often should I check the soil?: Check the soil every 7 days. If the top inch is dry, it is time to water.

Why does my Umbrella Tree have root rot?