Can I save a plant with root rot?

If the rot is caught early, you can improve drainage and let the soil dry out. If the roots are mostly black and mushy, it is usually too late to save the plant.

How often should I check the soil?

Check the soil every 3 to 7 days by sticking your finger an inch deep into the dirt.

American vetch: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it feels swampy or saturated.
Inspect the base of the stems for soft or blackened tissue.
Check if the container has adequate drainage holes.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or wilt even though the soil is wet. The stems near the base may look mushy or discolored.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out completely. If the soil stays wet for more than 7 days, consider amending it with perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Poor soil drainage
Possible
How to tell: Water pools on the surface of the soil long after watering. The plant looks stunted and the roots appear dark and soft instead of firm and white.
What to do: If the plant is in a container, ensure it has drainage holes at the bottom. If it is in the ground, you may need to transplant it to a raised bed or a spot with better soil structure.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your american vetch

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 are turning black and mushy at the base, the rot is advanced and the plant may not recover. It is normal for the plant to wilt slightly if it is just thirsty, but it should perk up quickly after watering.

Stopping it coming back

Always wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again, and ensure the soil is loose and well-draining.

American vetch: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your american vetch 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?: If the rot is caught early, you can improve drainage and let the soil dry out. If the roots are mostly black and mushy, it is usually too late to save the plant.
How often should I check the soil?: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days by sticking your finger an inch deep into the dirt.

Why is my American vetch showing signs of root rot?