How do I know if the soil is too wet?

If you press your finger into the soil and it feels like a wet sponge, it is too wet. The soil should feel slightly damp but not saturated.

Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots and repot in fresh, dry soil, then wait a few days before watering again.

Autumn hawkbit: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the top inch of soil to see if it is damp.
Check if the pot has drainage holes at the bottom.
Gently lift the plant to see if the roots look dark or mushy.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves will turn yellow or brown and feel mushy to the touch. The soil will stay wet for more than 2 weeks.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the plant is in a pot without drainage, move it to one that has holes.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil after you water. The roots may look dark, slimy, or smell foul when inspected.
What to do: Repot the plant into fresh, well-draining soil mix. Trim away any black or mushy roots with clean scissors before replanting.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your autumn hawkbit

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

Worry if the entire base of the plant feels soft or if the leaves are collapsing. If the roots are mostly black and slimy, the plant may be too far gone.

Stopping it coming back

Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water. Ensure your pot has good drainage to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.

Autumn hawkbit: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your autumn hawkbit 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

How do I know if the soil is too wet?: If you press your finger into the soil and it feels like a wet sponge, it is too wet. The soil should feel slightly damp but not saturated.
Can I save a plant with root rot?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots and repot in fresh, dry soil, then wait a few days before watering again.

Why does my Autumn hawkbit look like it is rotting?