Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, wash the remaining healthy ones, and repot into fresh, dry soil.

How often should I check the soil?

Check the soil every 3 to 7 days by sticking your finger an inch deep. If it feels damp, wait another day or two.

Wild potato: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a foul or swampy odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes that are not blocked.
Inspect the roots to see if they are firm and white or soft and brown.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and the stems feel soft near the soil line. The soil smells musty or sour.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out. If the rot is severe, trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits in the saucer for hours after you water. The soil remains heavy and wet for more than a week.
What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Use a potting mix amended with perlite to improve airflow to the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your wild potato

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 stems are turning black or mushy at the base, the rot is advanced and the plant may be difficult to save. If only a few roots are affected, you can usually save the plant with a repotting.

Stopping it coming back

Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water. Never let the pot sit in standing water.

Wild potato: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wild potato 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, wash the remaining healthy ones, and repot into fresh, dry soil.
How often should I check the soil?: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days by sticking your finger an inch deep. If it feels damp, wait another day or two.

How do I fix root rot on my Solanum etuberosum?