root rot on Fatsia Japonica
Quick answer
If your Fatsia Japonica has root rot, the most likely cause is: Fatsia japonica is a glossy, finger-leaved evergreen that is highly intolerant of waterlogged compost. Root rot almost always follows a period of overwatering, when the leaves suddenly turn brown or black, curl up, and the entire plant wilts; the rot pathogen then colonises the saturated root system.
Start here:
- 1. Knock the plant out of its pot, shake off the sodden compost, and cut away any soft, decaying root tissue with clean secateurs before repotting into fresh, freedraining compost.
- 2. Drench the remaining rootball with a systemic fungicide, then after a couple of hours let it dry out on absorbent paper before returning the plant to a warm, well-ventilated spot out of direct sun.
Why Fatsia Japonica gets root rot
fatsia japonica
Fatsia japonica is a glossy, finger-leaved evergreen that is highly intolerant of waterlogged compost. Root rot almost always follows a period of overwatering, when the leaves suddenly turn brown or black, curl up, and the entire plant wilts; the rot pathogen then colonises the saturated root system.
How to reverse root rot on Fatsia Japonica
- 1
Knock the plant out of its pot, shake off the sodden compost, and cut away any soft, decaying root tissue with clean secateurs before repotting into fresh, freedraining compost.
- 2
Drench the remaining rootball with a systemic fungicide, then after a couple of hours let it dry out on absorbent paper before returning the plant to a warm, well-ventilated spot out of direct sun.
- 3
Always tip out any standing water from the saucer or cache-pot within minutes of watering, because failure to remove standing water is the most common cause of failure in ordinary houseplants.
Keep root rot off this Fatsia Japonica
Use a loam-based potting mix with reliable drainage, water only when the top of the compost feels dry, never allow the pot to stand in water for long, and keep the plant in a cool position away from radiators.