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Root Rot in St John's Wort

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

St John's Wort is a hardy perennial herb with small, narrow leaves and bright yellow, five-petaled flowers that bloom profusely in summer

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St John's Wort care requirements

These care conditions are most relevant to root rot in St John's Wort. Check each one as a potential cause.

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Water
Low water needs; water moderately when young; once established, very drought-tolerant. Minimal watering needed.
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Soil
Well-draining soil; tolerates poor, sandy, rocky, or clay soils; neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.0–7.5) preferred.
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Humidity
Low humidity preferred; does not require misting; tolerates dry air well.
symptoms

Symptoms to look for in St John's Wort

  • fiber_manual_recordBrown, mushy roots
  • fiber_manual_recordYellowing leaves
  • fiber_manual_recordWilting despite moist soil
  • fiber_manual_recordFoul smell from soil
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Common causes in St John's Wort

  • fiber_manual_recordOverwatering
  • fiber_manual_recordPoor drainage
  • fiber_manual_recordFungal pathogens
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How to diagnose root rot in St John's Wort

Remove plant from pot. Healthy roots are white/tan and firm. Rotted roots are brown/black and mushy.

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How to treat root rot in St John's Wort

Trim all rotted roots with sterile scissors. Treat with hydrogen peroxide solution. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil.

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Preventing root rot in St John's Wort

Always use pots with drainage holes. Allow soil to partially dry between waterings. Use well-draining compost.

Other St John's Wort problems