Remediating Anaerobic Soil After Ficus Removal

Foul-smelling, waterlogged soil under a block wall footing indicates anaerobic conditions from rotting ficus roots and poor drainage.

In-Situ Repair (Avoids Costly Soil Replacement)

1. Till 50% organic matter (pine bark, compost) into top 18″.
2. Apply agricultural lime to neutralize acidity from anaerobic byproducts.
3. Let area rest a season; till 2–3 times to aerate.
4. Retest pH; plant moisture-tolerant species.

Why Not Remove Soil?

Ficus grew there originally; the subsoil is not toxic. Surface remediation restores aeration and biology at a fraction of the cost.