Soil smelling like ammonia

Arctic Palm · Post by **Arctic Palm** » Sat Nov 03, 2007 10:46 am

Here is a question for all....I have brought in several of my less than hardy palms. I have noticed over the last few days that 2 of them, the soil reaks of ammonia. It is so strong. Its just the soil....I am wondering if anyone knows whats up. Any help??

Knnn · Post by **Knnn** » Sat Nov 03, 2007 11:17 am

Sounds like the neighborhood cats may have been making use of your containers.........

I would try running lots of water through the containers/potting medium to get rid of whatever it is.

Barrie · Post by **Barrie** » Sat Nov 03, 2007 6:00 pm

Have you used a high Nitrogen fertilzer recently?

Cheers, Barrie.

Arctic Palm · Post by **Arctic Palm** » Sun Nov 04, 2007 4:20 am

I did just use a fert a few days ago yes. I am not sure how strong the nitrogen is in it. Could that be it?? It stinks.

Dean W. · Post by **Dean W.** » Sun Nov 04, 2007 6:52 am

Nitogen can do that. Hopefully you didn't use too much. Leaching the soil like Steve said should help.

Dean

lucky1 · Post by **lucky1** » Sun Nov 04, 2007 10:24 am

And/or maybe scratch some horticultural charcoal into the top inch of soil?

Among other things, charcoal is used to keep terrariums sweet smelling.
Barb