Watering Problems7 min read
Overwatered Plant Signs
An overwatered plant often looks thirsty. Wet soil, yellow lower leaves, drooping, fungus gnats, and soft stems are stronger clues than one symptom alone.
Read the guidePlant + symptom guide
Aglaonema root rot
Root rot is more likely when decline comes with wet soil, sour smell, mushy roots, soft stems, or a sealed pot. It is worth checking carefully before repotting.
For aglaonema, adjust the diagnosis around this plant profile: Aglaonemas tolerate moderate light but yellow from wet soil, cold drafts, or low light. Pink and variegated types often need brighter filtered light.
Most likely causes
overwateringno drainagedense soillow light plus slow dryingoverwatering or slow-drying soiltemperature or draft stress
How to confirm it
Smell the soil and look for sour or swampy odor.
Slide the root ball out only if decline is severe or the pot has no drainage.
Check for brown, mushy roots versus firm pale roots.
Check if yellowing follows cold exposure or winter watering.
Confirm the pot drains before adding more water.
Next steps for Aglaonema
- Step 1
Isolate the plant if rot is severe or pests are also present.
- Step 2
Trim dead roots and repot into a faster-draining mix if roots are mushy.
- Step 3
Do not fertilize while roots are recovering.
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