Can I save a palm with root rot?

If the rot is caught early and the trunk is still firm, you can save it by drying out the soil and improving drainage. If the trunk is mushy, the plant likely cannot recover.

How often should I water?

Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always check the soil moisture before adding more water.

Windmill Palm: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil 2 inches deep to check for moisture.
Inspect the drainage holes to ensure they are not blocked.
Press gently on the trunk base to check for soft spots.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil stays wet for days and the base of the trunk may feel soft or mushy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 3 inches of soil dry out completely. If the soil is heavy, mix in some perlite or sand to improve drainage for future waterings.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits on the surface of the soil long after you have finished watering.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. If planted in the ground, mound the soil slightly to encourage water to run away from the trunk.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your windmill palm

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 trunk feels soft or has a foul smell, the rot may have reached the core, which is often fatal. Minor yellowing of lower leaves is normal as the plant ages.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil is dry and always use well draining soil mixes.

Windmill Palm: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your windmill palm 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 palm with root rot?: If the rot is caught early and the trunk is still firm, you can save it by drying out the soil and improving drainage. If the trunk is mushy, the plant likely cannot recover.
How often should I water?: Water every 7 to 14 days depending on the heat. Always check the soil moisture before adding more water.

Why is my Windmill Palm showing signs of root rot?