Can I save a plant with root rot?

Yes, if you catch it early. Trim the damaged roots and repot in fresh, dry soil to give it a fresh start.

How often should I water to prevent rot?

Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

How do I fix root rot on my field pansy? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture level with your finger.
Smell the soil for a musty or rotting odor.
Gently lift the plant to inspect the color and texture of the roots.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The soil smells sour or musty and the plant looks limp. The roots appear brown and mushy instead of firm and white.
What to do: Remove the plant from its pot and trim away any dark, slimy roots with sterilized scissors. Repot the plant into fresh, well draining potting mix. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow and drop while the soil remains constantly soggy. The plant shows signs of decline despite regular care.
What to do: Allow the soil to dry out significantly between waterings. Only water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Adjust your schedule to water every 3 to 7 days depending on the current weather.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your field pansy

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 roots are mostly black and mushy, the plant may be too far gone to save. If you see some healthy white roots remaining, there is a good chance for recovery.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a well draining soil mix and never let the pot sit in a saucer of standing water.

Field pansy: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your field pansy 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. Trim the damaged roots and repot in fresh, dry soil to give it a fresh start.
How often should I water to prevent rot?: Check the soil every 3 to 7 days. Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

How do I fix root rot on my field pansy?