Question
I recently purchased a Corn Plant and it smells bad.  A strong mildew like smell.  
What should I do?

Answer
Hi Aaron,

Unless you have poured something other than plain water in the soil, then you should take the plant back. A healthy plant should not smell like mildew or anything else smelly. Apparently, something is in the soil that should not be there. It may be some kind of fungus or it may be something like urine. There is no way to tell. That is why you should return it.

If for some reason you cannot, then add some horticultural lime to the soil and then flush lots of clear water through the soil. If your local tap water is on the hard side, then use filtered or distilled water. After that, allow the soil to dry out about a quarter of the way deep into the pot before watering.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]