root rot

noun

: any of various plant diseases characterized by decay of the roots and caused especially by fungi

Examples of root rot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Third, the roots will absorb water more quickly instead of just sitting in soggy soil, which can lead to root rot. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 19 Apr. 2025 These plants can quickly develop root rot in soggy soil. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Apr. 2025 Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can stunt growth. Matt Rozo, Mercury News, 11 Apr. 2025 Increasing the pot size when it is not needed just leads to root rot as the soil will not dry out properly. Dr. Matthew Lisy, Hartford Courant, 29 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for root rot

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of root rot was in 1831

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Cite this Entry

“Root rot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/root%20rot. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

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