Can I save a Bobo with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim away the black, slimy roots with clean scissors and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.

How often should I water to avoid rot?

Check the soil every 2 to 5 days. If it feels damp to the touch, wait another day before watering again.

Bobo: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes at the bottom.
Feel the soil 2 inches down to see if it is mud.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly soggy and the base of the stems may look mushy or dark. You might notice a sour or swampy smell coming from the pot.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. If the plant is in a container without drainage holes, repot it into a pot that allows excess water to escape.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface for a long time after you water. The soil stays wet for more than 5 days even when the plant is in full sun.
What to do: Mix perlite or coarse sand into your potting soil to improve aeration. Ensure your pot has at least one large hole at the bottom to let water drain freely.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your bobo

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 may be too advanced to save the plant. It is normal for the soil to be damp, but it should never be waterlogged.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a well draining potting mix and ensure your pot has holes. Only water when the top inch of soil feels slightly less than damp.

Bobo: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your bobo 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 Bobo with root rot?: Yes, if you catch it early. Trim away the black, slimy roots with clean scissors and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.
How often should I water to avoid rot?: Check the soil every 2 to 5 days. If it feels damp to the touch, wait another day before watering again.

Why is my Bobo plant suffering from root rot?