Question
2 weeks ago I planted magiolds, fuschia and several other plants in my west side flower bed. I put fertrlizer and we have had several rain showers. I looked at my plants tonight and they all are starting to die. Could I have something wrong with my soil? PLEASE HELP ME!! THANKS!

Answer
It could be a couple of things.  The first is too much fertilizer.  If you used something like triple 13, it could be burning the roots and causing the plants to die.  The other is a root rot.  Those annuals are susceptible to root rot when first transplanted.  Unfortunately, if they are in the process of dying, a fungicide at this point will probably not help.  Check the soi moisture content and see if it is wet.  Also pull up one of the half dead plants and check the roots.  To do this, take a small root between your thumb and forefinger and pull on it gently.  If the outer covering or cortex comes off and leaves a small white shaft (the steele) behind, then the roots are rotting.  If this is the case, replanting may be your best option.  Let me know if this does not seem to be the problem and we can go in a different direction.  Thanks.