Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early enough. You must remove the damaged roots and provide fresh, dry soil to give the plant a chance to recover.

How often should I water?

Check your plant every 7 to 14 days. Only water if the soil is starting to feel dry rather than sticking to a strict calendar schedule.

Why is my Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon rotting? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Smell the soil for a musty or rotten odor.
Check if the pot has drainage holes.
Feel the soil to see if it is soggy deep down.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The base of the stem feels mushy and the soil smells sour or swampy. You might see the plant wilting even though the soil is wet.
What to do: Stop watering right away and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the rot is advanced, remove the plant from the pot, trim away black or slimy roots, and repot into fresh, well draining soil.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil for a long time after watering. The pot lacks holes or sits in a saucer full of standing water.
What to do: Ensure your pot has functional drainage holes at the bottom. Never leave the plant sitting in a saucer of water for more than 30 minutes after you finish watering.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your jack-go-to-bed-at-noon

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 stem base is soft and brown, the plant is likely too far gone to save. It is normal for the plant to look slightly thirsty if you have been underwatering, but rot is a much more urgent issue.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Always use a potting mix that includes perlite or sand to help water move through the soil.

Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your jack-go-to-bed-at-noon 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 enough. You must remove the damaged roots and provide fresh, dry soil to give the plant a chance to recover.
How often should I water?: Check your plant every 7 to 14 days. Only water if the soil is starting to feel dry rather than sticking to a strict calendar schedule.

Why is my Jack-go-to-bed-at-noon rotting?