Can I save a plant with root rot?

If you catch it early, you can trim away the dead, mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If most of the roots are black and slimy, it is usually too late.

How often should I water my Hebe?

Aim for every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait a few more days before adding water.

Why is my Hebe wilting and looking sad? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil an inch down to see if it is soggy.
Check that the pot has working drainage holes.
Smell the soil for a sour or rotten odor.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown and the plant wilts even though the soil is wet. The roots will look mushy and dark instead of firm and white.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the soil is heavy, repot the plant into a well draining mix with plenty of perlite.
Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil or the pot does not have enough holes. The plant stays constantly saturated, leading to root suffocation.
What to do: Ensure your pot has large drainage holes at the bottom. Elevate the pot on bricks or feet to allow excess water to escape freely.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your new zealand hebe

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 stems feel soft or mushy near the base, the rot has likely moved into the crown and the plant may be beyond saving. Wilting that does not improve after a day of drying out is a major red flag.

Stopping it coming back

Only water when the top inch of soil is dry and never let the pot sit in a saucer of standing water.

New Zealand hebe: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your new zealand hebe 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 dead, mushy roots and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil. If most of the roots are black and slimy, it is usually too late.
How often should I water my Hebe?: Aim for every 7 to 14 days, but always check the soil first. If it is still damp, wait a few more days before adding water.

Why is my Hebe wilting and looking sad?