Root Rot: Causes, Diagnosis & Fixes
Root rot occurs when roots are damaged by prolonged exposure to excess moisture, often leading to fungal or bacterial growth.
Quick diagnosis
Prevention is key — ensure proper drainage and allow soil to dry appropriately between waterings.
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.
Frequently asked questions
What causes root rot in houseplants?
Root rot occurs when roots are damaged by prolonged exposure to excess moisture, often leading to fungal or bacterial growth. Common causes include overwatering, poor drainage.
How do I fix root rot?
Start by identifying the likely cause instead of applying every remedy at once. Trim away any brown, mushy roots with clean scissors Repot in fresh, well-draining soil Use a pot with adequate drainage holes
Track the problem over time
Track recovery in the app
Log photos, notes, care history, and reminders while you monitor changes.
Sources and review
Content last reviewed: September 4, 2026
Content compiled from publicly available horticultural references for educational purposes. Source organizations are listed for transparency only and do not imply endorsement.