Root Rot Prevention: Keep Your Plants Healthy

Root rot is one of the most common and destructive problems that we see when people bring their plants in our shop to be looked at. It occurs when roots are damaged by fungi or bacteria, often due to overwatering or poor soil drainage. This condition can quickly lead to plant decline and death if not addressed early. Understanding how to identify, prevent, and manage root rot is essential for maintaining healthy plants and vibrant gardens.

Understanding Root Rot and Avoiding Root Rot Risks

Root rot is caused primarily by pathogens such as Phytophthora, Pythium, and Rhizoctonia fungi. These organisms thrive in wet, poorly drained soils where oxygen is limited. When roots are submerged in water for extended periods, they become weak and susceptible to infection. This is why, when you are doing "drop in" potting, it's essential to remove the inner nursery pot and plant from the outer decorative "cachepot" (means 'hide the pot' in French) and let it drain outside of that before putting it back in.

Signs of root rot include:

• Wilting leaves despite moist soil

• Yellowing or browning foliage

• Soft, mushy roots that are dark brown or black

• Foul smell from the soil or roots

  
  

Avoiding root rot starts with recognizing the conditions that promote it. Overwatering is the most common cause. Plants need a balance of moisture and air around their roots. Saturated soil cuts off oxygen, creating an environment where harmful fungi flourish.

Tips to avoid root rot:

• Use well-draining soil mixes, especially for potted plants. We make our own in-house well-draining blend that we use for repotting projects dropped off to us and we also sell it in shop. We also sell Sol Soils chunky houseplant blend (in addition to their orchid blend and succulent blend).

• Ensure pots have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

• Know the watering preferences of your plants. We provide email support with care info for every purchase and also provide a QR code with a free plant app for ongoing care.

• Avoid letting plants sit in standing water.

  
  

  Slow motion video of our chunky and airy soil mix, designed to reduce root rot and fungus gnat issues

If you have any questions or concerns you can always bring your plant to us for intake & assessment and we do root maintenance, sanitizing and re-potting services if needed.