Succulents root rot

Wet-soft roots, a collapsing stem, or translucent leaves need inspection. These instructions concern fleshy desert-type succulents; Christmas cactus and other forest cacti need their own recovery conditions.

Some healthy roots remain

Remove rotten roots with clean scissors, preserving healthy roots. Discard old mix and use a clean draining pot that fits the surviving root ball. Let fresh fleshy cuts form a dry surface seal without baking or deliberately desiccating the healthy fine roots. Follow the rooted-plant recovery steps for watering after repotting.

The stem or crown is rotten

Save a firm stem section or offset only if that plant can be propagated that way. Allow the cut to form a dry seal, then root it in suitable propagation mix with controlled moisture. Aloes are best rescued from healthy offsets, not loose leaf pieces. The mushy succulent guide separates these methods.