How can you tell if a plant has root rot?

Identifying root rot is crucial for the health of a plant, and one of the most telling signs is indeed yellowing leaves accompanied by a foul smell emanating from the roots. When a plant suffers from root rot, the roots begin to decay due to overwatering or poor drainage, leading to the breakdown of healthy root tissue. As the roots die, they can emit a distinct foul odor, often indicative of bacterial or fungal activity.

The yellowing of leaves can serve as a visible cue of distress in the plant, signaling that it is not receiving the necessary nutrients and water due to compromised root function. In healthy plants, roots should remain firm and intact while supporting normal nutrient uptake; however, rotting roots can cause nutrient deficiencies, resulting in leaf discoloration.

Other options reflect symptoms but do not specifically align with the characteristic indicators of root rot. While wilting leaves and slow growth, for instance, can be associated with various plant stressors, they do not distinctly pinpoint root rot. Dark green foliage and robust roots suggest good health, which is the opposite of the indications that root rot presents. Leaf drop and increased pest presence may occur for other reasons entirely, such as environmental stress or pest damage, rather than pointing directly to root health.