Can I save a plant with rot?

If the rot is only on the outer leaves, you might save it by removing the damaged parts. If the core is affected, the plant usually cannot recover.

How do I know if it is dry enough?

The plant should look and feel dry to the touch. If you see water pooling in the leaf axils, it is still too wet.

Blushing Bride: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Gently pull on the center leaves to see if they come loose.
Smell the base of the plant for a musty or decaying odor.
Check if the plant is staying wet for too long after watering.

Likely causes

Excessive Moisture
Most likely
How to tell: The base of the plant turns dark, mushy, and may smell unpleasant.
What to do: Stop soaking the plant immediately. Allow it to dry completely in a spot with good airflow and bright indirect light.
Poor Air Circulation
Possible
How to tell: The plant stays damp for more than 4 hours after watering.
What to do: After soaking, always shake the plant upside down to remove trapped water. Place it in a well ventilated area so it dries within a few hours.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your blushing bride

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 center leaves fall out easily or the base is black and mushy, the plant is likely beyond saving. This is a fatal condition for Tillandsia.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure your plant dries completely within 4 hours of every soak. Never leave it sitting in standing water.

Blushing Bride: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your blushing bride 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 rot?: If the rot is only on the outer leaves, you might save it by removing the damaged parts. If the core is affected, the plant usually cannot recover.
How do I know if it is dry enough?: The plant should look and feel dry to the touch. If you see water pooling in the leaf axils, it is still too wet.

Why is my Blushing Bride rotting at the base?