Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots and repot in dry, airy soil.

How often should I water?

Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry.

Christmas cactus: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture by sticking your finger 2 inches deep.
Inspect the base of the stems for soft or discolored tissue.
Lift the pot to see if water is pooling in the saucer.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The stems feel soft or mushy, and the soil smells sour or moldy. You might see the base of the plant turning dark brown or black.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the rot is advanced, remove the plant from the pot, trim away black mushy roots, and repot in fresh, well draining cactus mix.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits at the bottom of the pot for days after watering. The plant looks sad even when the top soil feels dry.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. If it does not, move the plant to a pot that does to allow excess water to escape.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your christmas cactus

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 is mushy or falling apart, the rot has likely reached the main structure and the plant may not recover.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top 2 to 3 centimeters of soil are dry before watering again.

Christmas cactus: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your christmas cactus 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. Trim the dead roots and repot in dry, airy soil.
How often should I water?: Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry.

Why is my Christmas cactus wilting and mushy?