This one is urgent. Root rot can kill a plant in days if left alone — but if you catch it early, many plants recover fully. Here’s how to spot it and what to do right now.
What It Looks Like
Yellowing leaves that don’t improve with adjusted watering. Mushy, black, or translucent stems near the soil line. A foul, swampy smell from the pot. Roots that are brown and slimy instead of white and firm.
Most Common Causes
- Chronic overwatering — the number one cause. Soil that never dries out breeds rot.
- No drainage — pots without drainage holes, or saucers left full of water.
- Dense, waterlogged soil — heavy potting mix that stays soggy for days.
- Oversized pots — too much soil holds too much moisture around small root systems.
What to Do Right Now
Unpot the plant and rinse the roots. Cut away anything brown, black, or mushy with clean scissors — keep only firm, white roots. Let the roots air-dry for a few hours, then repot in fresh, well-draining mix in a pot with drainage holes. Water lightly, then wait until the top inches dry before watering again.
For detailed revival steps, see our Plant Emergencies guides. And check Pests & Diseases — fungus gnats love the damp conditions that cause rot.