Teral

Roots & watering · WITH DIGBY

Why does wet cocopeat smell sour?

An unusual smell deserves inspection, especially when roots are deteriorating.

Teral grower guidance · Updated 27 October 2026

Digby, Growlab character guideDigbyYour roots & watering guide

THE COCOPEAT CONNECTION

Why the root zone matters

Persistent saturation, decomposing residues or contaminated water can affect the root environment.

01 / OBSERVE

Three checks before you change anything

  1. Check drainage and any standing water
  2. Inspect roots for firmness and new growth
  3. Compare fresh material and irrigation water

02 / NARROW IT DOWN

Where is the odour strongest?

Choose the closest observation for a suggested next check.

Standing drainage

Investigate collection and drainage hygiene.

Inside bags with damaged roots

Arrange a crop-health assessment promptly.

New unopened batch

Retain the batch and contact the supplier before planting.

03 / TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Leave with something useful

Record the location, duration and associated plant symptoms.

Keep in mind

Fragrances or disinfectant additions do not establish that the cause is corrected.

Discuss this with Teral →