Root Rot
Root rot occurs when roots are damaged by prolonged exposure to excess moisture, often leading to fungal or bacterial growth.
Possible Causes
Overwatering
Why: The most common cause. Consistently wet soil deprives roots of oxygen.
Signs to check: Soil stays wet for days, mushy brown/black roots, foul smell.
Poor Drainage
Why: Pots without drainage holes or dense soil trap excess water around roots.
Signs to check: Water sits at the bottom of the pot, soil is compacted.
What to Check
- 1Gently remove plant from pot to inspect roots
- 2Check if roots are firm (healthy) or mushy (rotting)
- 3Note any foul smell from the root zone
- 4Check pot drainage and soil composition
What You Can Do
- Trim away any brown, mushy roots with clean scissors
- Repot in fresh, well-draining soil
- Use a pot with adequate drainage holes
- Reduce watering frequency going forward
When to Seek Help
- Most roots are brown and mushy
- Plant continues to decline after repotting
- Stem base is soft or discolored
Key Takeaway
Prevention is key — ensure proper drainage and allow soil to dry appropriately between waterings.
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Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden, NC State Extension. Content compiled from publicly available horticultural references for educational purposes. Source organizations are listed for transparency only and do not imply endorsement.