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.
Causes possibles
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.
Quoi verifier
- 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
Que faire
- 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
Quand chercher de l'aide
- Most roots are brown and mushy
- Plant continues to decline after repotting
- Stem base is soft or discolored
Point cle
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
Suivre la recuperation dans l'app
Enregistrez les progres, configurez des rappels et obtenez un diagnostic par IA.
Sources and review
Content last reviewed: September 4, 2026
Contenu compile a partir de references horticoles accessibles au public a des fins educatives. Les organisations sources sont listees pour la transparence uniquement et n'impliquent pas d'approbation.