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Planta cebra · Tradescantia zebrina

Why is my Inch plant rotting at the base?

Root rot is a common issue for Inch plants when they sit in soggy soil for too long. Check the soil moisture and the smell of the pot first to see if the roots are suffocating.

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root rot on a plant
Photo: Ninjatacoshell, CC BY-SA 3.0

Check these first

  1. Stick your finger 2 inches into the soil to check for dampness.
  2. Smell the soil for any signs of decay.
  3. Inspect the bottom of the pot to ensure water is draining freely.

Likely causes

  1. Overwatering

    Most likely

    How to tell: The stems feel mushy near the soil line and the leaves turn yellow or brown. 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 severely affected, remove it from the pot, trim away black or slimy roots, and repot in fresh, well draining soil.

  2. Poor Drainage

    Possible

    How to tell: Water pools on the surface for a long time after watering. The pot lacks holes or the soil is too dense.

    What to do: Ensure your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Mix perlite or orchid bark into your potting mix to improve airflow around the roots.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your planta cebra

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.

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When to worry

If the stems are turning black and mushy at the base, the plant is in critical condition. It is normal for a few older leaves to yellow occasionally, but widespread mushiness is a major concern.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil is completely dry to the touch. Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.

Planta cebra: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your planta cebra 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with root rot?
Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the dead roots, repot in fresh soil, and be very careful not to overwater while it recovers.
How often should I water my Inch plant?
Water every 5 to 10 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait another day or two.

More problems with Planta cebra

Back to the Planta cebra guide

This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.