Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Stick your finger two inches into the soil to feel for dampness.
- Check the bottom of the pot to see if water is pooling in the saucer.
- Gently pull the plant out of its pot to inspect the roots for dark, slimy sections.
Likely causes
Overwatering
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaves turn yellow or mushy and the stems feel soft near the base. You might also notice a sour smell coming from the soil.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out. If the plant is severely affected, take it out of the pot, trim away black or mushy roots, and repot it in fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
PossibleHow to tell: The soil stays wet for more than two weeks after watering. The pot might lack holes or the soil mix is too dense.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Mix perlite or orchid bark into your potting soil to improve airflow and drainage.
When to worry
If the stems are turning black and mushy, the rot is advanced and the plant may be difficult to save. It is normal for a few roots to look brown if the plant is just slightly thirsty.
Stopping it coming back
Always wait until the top 50 percent of the soil is dry before adding more water. Use a chunky, airy soil mix that does not hold onto too much moisture.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your silver philodendron.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are 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 fresh, dry soil.
- How often should I water?
- Water every 7 to 14 days, but only when the top half of the soil is dry.
More problems with Silver Philodendron
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This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.