Yellow leaves, a strange musty smell—and a white fuzz on top of the pot. Is your plant doomed with root rot, or is it just harmless surface mold? Grab a spoon and a nose: you can know in under a minute.
Step 1 — Inspect the Soil Surface
White fuzz or green film? That’s likely saprophytic mold or algae. A dark, sludgy top layer could hint at deeper rot.
Step 2 — The Sniff Test
Healthy soil smells like forest floor. Rotting roots smell sour, swampy, sometimes like bad eggs. If you wrinkle your nose, move to Step 3.
Step 3 — Peek at the Roots
- Gently slide the plant halfway out of its pot.
- Look for white, firm roots (good) versus brown, mushy strands (rot).
- If only the surface shows mold and roots are healthy, treat as surface mold.
If It’s Just Surface Mold
Follow our 5‑step mold removal guide →
If It’s Root Rot
Act fast: Trim off rotten roots, rinse healthy ones, and re-pot in fresh, well‑draining mix. Reduce watering until the top 2 inches feel dry.
Quick FAQ
Can root rot and mold happen together?
Yes. Chronically wet soil can grow surface mold and suffocate roots, leading to rot. Treat both problems at once.
Will cinnamon fix root rot?
No. Cinnamon is a surface anti-fungal. Root rot usually needs root trimming + fresh soil.
Do I need a moisture meter?
It’s optional but helpful. Consistently “wet” readings at the bottom of the pot can flag hidden rot.
Keep rot and mold from returning—read 10 Everyday Habits to Prevent Mold →