Root rot
The most common cause of houseplant death.
Updated on 2026-07-17
Causes
Waterlogging + poor drainage + cold. Pathogens (Pythium, Phytophthora) attack weakened roots.
Diagnosis
Slip the root ball out: dark, mushy, smelly roots = rot. Healthy roots are pale and firm.
Solutions
Cut away rotten roots, rinse the rest, repot into fresh dry sterile mix. Skip watering for a week.
Prevention
Pots with holes, empty saucers after watering, well-draining substrate.