Why Is My Dolphin Plant Dying?

One of the primary reasons your dolphin plant may be dying is root rot, often caused by issues with watering and drainage.

Root rot is a common problem for many houseplants, including the unique String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus). According to sources, overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which results in the plant's roots becoming mushy and beginning to decay. When the roots are damaged this way, they can no longer effectively absorb water and nutrients, starving the rest of the plant and causing it to decline.

Understanding Root Rot in Dolphin Plants

Root rot occurs when the roots are deprived of oxygen due to constantly saturated soil. Fungal pathogens thrive in these wet, airless conditions and attack the roots.

Common Causes of Root Rot

• Overwatering: Giving the plant too much water or watering too frequently doesn't allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Dolphin plants, being succulents, store water in their "dolphin" leaves and stems and prefer soil to dry out significantly between waterings.
• Poor Drainage:
  • Using a pot without drainage holes.
  • Using soil that is too dense and retains too much moisture (e.g., standard potting soil without added perlite or sand).
  • A drainage hole that is blocked.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Identifying root rot early can help save your plant. Look for these signs:

• Wilting or drooping leaves: Despite the soil being wet, the leaves may look thirsty because damaged roots can't take up water.
• Yellowing leaves: Leaves may turn yellow, often starting from the lower parts of the plant.
• Mushy stems or leaves: The base of the plant or the characteristic "dolphin" leaves might feel soft and mushy.
• Stunted growth: The plant stops producing new growth.
• Foul odor: The soil might develop a rotten smell.

Checking for Root Rot

If you suspect root rot, carefully remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Healthy roots are typically firm and white or light tan. Roots affected by rot will appear brown or black, feel soft and mushy, and may easily break apart.

Addressing Root Rot

If you find root rot, you need to act quickly:

1. Trim Affected Roots: Use clean, sharp scissors or pruners to cut away all brown, mushy, or smelly roots. Cut back to healthy, firm tissue.
2. Clean the Plant: Rinse the remaining healthy roots gently under cool water to remove any remaining contaminated soil.
3. Repot: Repot the plant in a clean pot (sterilize if using the old one) using fresh, well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix.
4. Adjust Watering: Do not water immediately after repotting. Give the plant a few days to recover. When you do water, do so thoroughly until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry out almost completely before watering again. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.

By addressing overwatering and ensuring proper drainage, you can help prevent and recover from root rot, which is a major cause of dolphin plants dying.