Why Does My Potted Plant Smell?

It's common to love the sight and feel of having live plants in the home, but what happens when they start to smell? A potted plant can emit unpleasant odors, which can be quite alarming. There are several reasons why your potted plant might start to smell, and in this article, we will be discussing some of them.

Poor Soil Drainage

One of the most common causes of smelly potted plants is poor soil drainage. When there isn't adequate drainage, excess water accumulates at the bottom of the pot instead of seeping out, leading to root rot. As the roots decay, they emit an unpleasant odor that can be quite strong. Proper watering is required to avoid this issue. Ensure that the pot has sufficient drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Also, avoid overwatering your plant. Check the soil moisture with your finger or a moisture meter and water only when the top inch of the soil has dried out.

Foul-Smelling Soil

If your potted plant suddenly starts to smell a bit funky and has not been overwatered, it's possible that the soil is contaminated. Several issues can lead to soil contamination, such as fungus or bacteria. Quite often, the smell from the soil can be described as reminiscent of a sewer or a damp sock. One solution is to replace the soil in the pot. Cut off any diseased or dead ends of the phytotoxic portion of the plant's root system, and repot in new, sterile soil.

Pest Infestations

A pest infestation can sometimes lead to smelly plants. Insects such as fungus gnats or aphids are candidates for potted plant infestations. Fungus gnats are small winged insects that are more likely to infest a plant whose soil has been overwatered or is excessively damp. Aphids feed on plants, excrete a sticky substance, and leave a foul odor behind. Look closely beneath the leaves of your plant for these creepy crawlers. If you detect an infestation, quickly identify a safe, effective method of pest control either environmentally friendly or chemically based, depending on your personal preference.

Conclusion

Potted plants can make a lovely and soothing addition to any home, but they can also become smelly and unpleasant. If you notice a bad odor emanating from your potted plant, try to investigate the cause using the tips we've shared. From poor soil drainage to fungus, pests to poor watering, there are several reasons why your plant may smell. When you diagnose the problem, you can fix it or get help from your local garden center or online resources. With proper care, your potted plants can stay healthy and odor-free for a long time.