Expert: Mike Mascio - 6/4/2004

Question
My pansys are starting to die, the leaves are turning black, some are spotted but others are all colored. I planted others in different area's from the same place and they are doing fine. The soil in this bed is very wet, are they too saturated with water?

Answer
Cindy, the excess water has caused a disease called root-rot. This occurs when the water in the soil does not drain, and therefore literally suffocates the roots, depriving the plant of oxygen and nutrients.  The best solution is to build this bed up with as much organic matter as possible.  This includes compost, dried grass clippings, shredded leaves, aged manure, and peat moss.  These amendments will not only improve your drainage, but will also be a source of nutrients for months to come.

I hope this answered your question.  Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike