Question
Have had an ongoing problem with stunted plants, in containers, a small garden patch, and my entire lawn. Had sod brought in four years ago for a front and rear lawn. Each year the lawn got progressively worse, regardless of fertilizing, thatching, etc. Planted only beans and squash in the garden this year, but the beans are stunted to an alarming degree, less than 1' tall, with limited beans only about 1" long, not mature. Squash plants put on fruit, however 90% fade and die at about the size of a quarter, without maturing. Container geraniums continue to flower, however have not grown significantly from the size at which they were purchased. Soil is varied throughout the property, purchased bagged soils, Miracle Grow brand mostly, purchased a truck load of top soil, triple cut, and have added horse manure, aged, to the garden patch, along with purchased soils. The only common element appears to be the water, which is a well. Could something be "poisoning" my plants and lawn?
Thanks for any help you can provide.
Schell


Answer
Hi Schell, It's not likely anything in the water but ask your neighbors if they have the same problem.  If so, have the water tested.  
With such a variety of soils, it's not likely the soil either, but if your neighbors are having similar problems, have the soil tested.
We can rule out nematodes since container plants seem to be suffering also.
If the neighbors plants are healthy, then it would suggest cultural practices.  
All of the plants you mentioned like full sun (8 or more hours), need well drained soil, a pH of 6 to 6.5, a regular fertilizer program and sufficient (but not too much) water.  
Over watering is the most common culprit.  It locks up nutrients and causes poor root development.
Under watering could cause similar problems.
Snatch up one of the sick plants and take it to your local independent garden center.  Take a soil sample with you.  
I think they'll be able to identify the problem and get you started towards a fix.  Jim