Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in fresh, dry soil. If the rot has reached the stems, it is usually best to start over.

How often should I water?

Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil moisture first.

Clover: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it is soggy.
Check the bottom of the pot for standing water.
Inspect the roots for a dark or slimy appearance.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels constantly wet or swampy, and the stems look limp.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. Ensure your pot has drainage holes or amend garden soil with sand to improve flow.
Poor Drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water sits on the surface for a long time after you water.
What to do: If in a container, repot into a well draining mix. If in the ground, add organic matter or sand to break up heavy clay.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your clover

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 entire plant is mushy and smells bad, it is likely too late to save it. Some wilting is normal during the hottest part of the day.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.

Clover: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your clover 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?: If you catch it early, you can trim away the black, mushy roots and repot in fresh, dry soil. If the rot has reached the stems, it is usually best to start over.
How often should I water?: Aim for every 3 to 7 days, but always check the soil moisture first.

Why is my white clover wilting and the roots look mushy?