What Does Root Rot Look Like? Here's How to Catch It Early Enough to Cure It

If your houseplant looks worse for wear lately but you can't identify the cause, it's possible it may be suffering from root rot. This common plant ailment can develop unseen beneath the soil’s surface, putting intense stress on your plant before it eventually succumbs to the condition. 

One of the reasons root rot is so insidious is that some of the main symptoms of the disease—like yellowing leaves or stunted growth—can be confused with other issues. That’s why it’s so important to know what root rot looks like and exactly what you need to do if you suspect your plant has it. 

What Is Root Rot?

Root rot is a plant disease that affects a plant's roots, causing them to rot and decay, according to Alex Kantor, owner of Perfect Plants Nursery. “This happens due to overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungal and bacterial pathogens, leading to poor nutrient uptake and, eventually, the death of the plant.”

Unfortunately for both you and your plants, the initial onset happens out of sight, which means it may take a while for you to discover the problem. “The disease starts at the root system, making it difficult to detect in its early stages since the symptoms are not immediately visible above the soil,” says Vicky Popat, plant expert and co-founder of PlantOGram. 

What Does Root Rot Look Like?

There are a few red flags you may notice that indicate your plant is suffering from root rot.

Discolored Leaves

Yellowing and wilting leaves are common symptoms of root rot. “Despite adequate watering, the leaves may appear wilted or droopy due to the roots' inability to absorb water and nutrients,” says Popat. 

Loss of Leaves

After the leaves of your indoor plant become yellow, they may then turn brown and fall off—another major sign of root rot.

Root Mass Reduction

A healthy root system is typically full, but a plant suffering from root rot may have undergone a root mass reduction. “When removing the plant from its pot, you might notice that the root ball crumbles away, indicating that many roots have decayed and died," says Popat.

Mushy Roots

You may be able to tell if your plant has root rot by feeling the difference in the texture of the root structure itself. Healthy roots are usually white or cream-colored, firm to the touch, and evenly branched out without any soft areas or spots. “Roots suffering from rot will turn dark brown or black and may feel mushy or slimy to the touch," says Popat.

Smelly Roots

Another way to identify root rot is by smelling the roots. “Rotted roots often emit a foul, decayed smell, unlike healthy roots,” says Popat. Since healthy soil typically has a mild earthy smell, this should be a major warning sign.

How to Treat Root Rot

Luckily, it is possible to save your indoor plants from root rot if the infection isn't severe. To do so, the best course of action is to re-pot your houseplant.

1. Gently remove the infected plant from its pot.
2. Remove excess soil around the roots so they are exposed.
3. Using clean, sharp pruning shears, trim away any damaged roots.
4. Fill a clean, sterilized pot that has drainage holes with fresh, well-draining potting soil.
5. Place the plant in the pot and backfill with soil.
6. Water the base of the plant lightly.

How to Prevent Root Rot 

The best way to protect your indoor plants from root rot is by taking preventative measures.

Adjust Your Watering Schedule

Avoiding overwatering your plants can help prevent root rot. “Ensure proper watering by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings,” says Kantor. You may want to get a moisture meter or use your finger to ensure that your plant actually needs water before giving it a drink. 

Promote Proper Soil Drainage

Look for ways to improve soil drainage, which you can do by amending your soil with organic matter like compost or perlite. “This helps prevent waterlogged conditions that can contribute to root rot," says Kantor. Make sure you're always planting your houseplants in containers with drainage holes.

Sterilize Planting Supplies

You should also always sterilize your planting supplies between uses. “Before using pots and gardening tools, especially if reusing them or after dealing with diseased plants, sterilize them to kill any pathogens,” says Popat. You can do this by creating your own bleach solution with one part bleach to nine parts water, or by using rubbing alcohol. 

Choose Hardy Plants

Picking plants that are less susceptible to the condition is also smart. Rubber plant, golden pothos, and autumn fern are all a little more hardy when it comes to root rot, says Kantor.