Forum home Talkback

Damping-off

It’s that time of year again when we have to face the dreaded damping-off issue, a particularly difficult time for beginners to gardening.

Damping off — is a horticultural disease caused by numerous fungi and other pathogens, they can move through an entire tray of seedlings in a matter of days. It is probably the single biggest problem for gardeners who start their seedlings indoors.

Four facts that may help:

 Don’t water too frequently:

Ensure adequate air circulation:

Maintain correct temperatures: Allowing plants to become either too hot or too cold can increase vulnerability to damping off.

Use only sterile compost.

Hope this is helpful.

Posts

  • chickychicky Posts: 10,396

    David - i avoid watering seedlings with waterbutt water too - only use tap water.  Since some of my babies are in the GH (which doesn't have a tap, only butts) this can be a bit of a painimage

  • Yes, that must be a pain, chicky, but you're quite right, stagnant water isn't helpful.

    Us old gardeners used to rely on Cheshunt Compound to treat damping-off, but of course is no longer available under current regulations, although there are alternatives.

Sign In or Register to comment.