Can I save a Scilla with root rot?

If the rot is caught early and the bulb is still firm, you can save it by trimming the damaged roots and repotting it in dry soil. If the bulb is soft or mushy, it is usually too late.

How often should I water my Scilla?

Water every 7 to 14 days during the growing season. Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.

Why is my Scilla showing signs of root rot? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil feels wet or muddy to the touch.
Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
Inspect the base of the bulb for soft or discolored tissue.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or mushy at the base and the soil smells sour or swampy. You might see the bulb becoming soft to the touch.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the bulb feels mushy, carefully unpot the plant to trim away any black or slimy roots before repotting in fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water pools at the bottom of the pot or takes more than a few days to soak in after watering. The pot lacks holes or sits in a saucer full of standing water.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Empty the saucer 15 minutes after watering so the plant never sits in a puddle.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your squill

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 bulb itself has turned mushy or brown, the plant is likely beyond saving. It is normal for the foliage to die back naturally when the plant enters its dormant phase.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a potting mix designed for bulbs or succulents and ensure your pot has adequate drainage holes.

Squill: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your squill 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I save a Scilla with root rot?: If the rot is caught early and the bulb is still firm, you can save it by trimming the damaged roots and repotting it in dry soil. If the bulb is soft or mushy, it is usually too late.
How often should I water my Scilla?: Water every 7 to 14 days during the growing season. Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.

Why is my Scilla showing signs of root rot?