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Are brown roots bad?

Published in Plant Health 2 mins read

Yes, brown roots are often a sign of an unhealthy plant.

Generally, healthy roots are white or tan. Brown or black roots often indicate root rot, which is a serious problem that can kill your plant.

Why Are Brown Roots Bad?

Brown roots usually signify that the roots are rotting or dead. This rotting is typically caused by:

  • Overwatering: This is the most common cause. Soggy soil deprives the roots of oxygen, leading to decay.
  • Poor Drainage: Soil that doesn't drain well can also lead to overwatering issues.
  • Root Diseases: Fungal or bacterial infections can attack the roots and cause them to rot.
  • Underwatering: While less common, extremely dry conditions can also damage roots, making them susceptible to disease and appearing brown.

How to Tell if Roots are Unhealthy:

Here's what to look for:

  • Color: Healthy roots are typically white or tan. Brown or black roots suggest rot.
  • Texture: Healthy roots are firm and springy. Unhealthy roots are soft, mushy, and may fall apart easily.
  • Smell: Rotting roots often have a foul or unpleasant odor.

What to Do If You Have Brown Roots:

  1. Assess the Damage: Gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots.
  2. Remove the Rot: Using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears, carefully cut away any brown, mushy, or smelly roots.
  3. Repot in Fresh Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. If overwatering was the issue, choose a pot with better drainage.
  4. Adjust Watering Habits: Water only when the top inch or two of soil is dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
  5. Consider a Fungicide: If the root rot was caused by a fungal infection, a fungicide may help. Follow the product instructions carefully.

When Brown Roots Might Not Be Bad:

It's important to note that some plants naturally have darker roots. If the roots are firm and healthy in texture, a darker color may simply be a characteristic of the plant. However, always check for other signs of rot, like mushiness and odor, to be sure.