The 8 hidden garden problems in that could be pointing to a MUCH bigger issue & it's bad news if yours has a weird smell

The Sun

28-05-2025

PATCHY lawns and annoying pests are just two of the problems you might encounter in your garden.
But did you know there's a whole host of hidden ones that could be pointing to a much bigger issue in yours?
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According to a gardening expert, one of the biggest signs is a weird smell in your green space - which could be an indicator of decay in your flowerbeds.
"A strange smell in your garden can easily be overlooked but is a huge red flag as foul odours may indicate root rot or bacterial infections in your plants," Fiona Jenkins at MyJobQuote.co.uk explained.
If you get a whiff of anything unusual in the garden, you should examine your plants for "any signs of disease or decay".
"Addressing the root cause is crucial to preventing the problem from worsening, and your gardening habits may need adjusting," Fiona explained.
Remove any decayed material, and use "appropriate treatments to stop the spread of infection".
"Sometimes, plants may give off a natural scent, but you can never be too careful, and it is important to ensure that it is not indicative of a problem," Fiona concluded.
Another sign of a hidden problem in your garden to look out for is yellowing leaves, as it's "an indicator of improper watering or nutrient deficiencies".
"Overwatering can suffocate roots while underwatering dehydrates them, both leading to yellow leaves," Fiona said.
"A lack of essential nutrients can also lie at the heart of the discolouration issue."
To address the problem, have a look at your watering schedule - it might be that it "needs some simple tweaks".
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"If this doesn't solve the problem, it may be worth conducting a soil test to see what nutrients your plants are missing and invest in a good quality fertiliser to restore them to full health," she advised.
A similar issue is pointed out by discoloured flowers, which can show that they are "in distress".
"Environmental factors such as extreme heat or cold can cause discolouration, as can nutrient imbalances," Fiona said.
"Start by evaluating the conditions – it may be as simple as adjusting sunlight exposure or providing more shade to the area.
"A soil test will reveal any nutrient deficiencies, which can then be addressed with the right fertilisers to restore vitality."
Japanese Knotweed, mould and mildew and annoying pests such as caterpillars and fruit flies can point to a bigger garden problem, as well as plants' stunted growth.
The 8 hidden problems that could be pointing to a bigger issue in your garden
GARDENING expert Fiona Jenkins at MyJobQuote.co.uk shares the early warning signs to look out in your garden for before the minor issues turn into major ones and prevent yours from thriving.
This can indicate a root problem, which you can test for by "gently checking" the root.
"Healthy roots should be white and firm," Fiona noted.
"If rot is present, reduce your watering schedule and improve soil drainage as well as regularly inspecting for pests that may be targeting the roots.
"By maintaining root health, you are ensuring that your plants have a strong foundation to support their growth."
And lastly - one of the most obvious problems few gardens avoid - weeds.
"Like many other garden plants, weeds thrive in the warm summer weather and could be taking away essential sunlight, water and nutrients from your beautiful summer flowers," Fiona said.
"Applying a deep layer of mulch to your soil during the spring months can suppress weed growth by blocking sunlight and conserving soil moisture.
"If you do see any weeds start to sprout, remove them promptly by hand, pulling them out or using garden tools to ensure that they do not regrow."
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