Damping Off Disease
Don’t let past problems starting plants from seeds prevent you from partaking in this fun and budget-wise garden activity. A clean start and proper care can be the difference between success and failure.
Damping off disease may be the culprit. It is caused by several different fungal diseases and can prevent seeds from sprouting or cause young seedlings to suddenly collapse and die.
Prevent the problem by starting seeds in new or clean containers. Use a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water to disinfect used pots, cell packs and flats. Purchase a seed starter or sterile potting mix. These are pest-free and have the drainage and moisture holding capacity needed for starting seeds.
Keep the soil warm and moist, but not soggy wet. The seed packet will provide recommendations. Sprout seeds in a warm location.
These steps are usually enough to prevent this disease.
Once the disease occurs, remove and destroy the infected soil and seedlings.
A bit more information: Contain this and other soil borne diseases by starting seeds in individual containers or cell packs. This slows the spread of the disease and makes clean up easier. Just discard the infested plants and soil. Dispose of or clean containers before using them again.
Related
Audio
Audio
Categories
Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars
March 20, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
Maximize the Beauty and Enjoyment
in Any Small Space
Register now
March 23, 2024
REALTORS Home & Garden Show
West Allis, WI
March 27, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
How to Start a Garden for Beginners
Register now
April 3, 2024
Garden Trends
Franklin Public Library, Franklin, WI
April 10, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
Container Gardening Throughout the Year
Register now
April 11, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
7 Steps to Managing Water Where it Falls in Your Yard
Register now
April 18, 2024
Be a Waterwise Gardener
Golden Rondelle Theater, Racine, WI
Register now
April 20, 2024
Pruning Hydrangeas and Other Shrubs
Pasquesi Home & Gardens, Lake Bluff, IL
April 27, 2024
Ridges & Rivers Book Festival
Viroqua, WI
April 28, 2024
Flowering Trees and Shrubs
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
May 1, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
Ornamental Fruits and Vegetables
Register now
WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS
Learn More