Damping-off
July 8, 2015
Seedling diseases
Pathogen
Multiple including Pythium spp. and Rhizoctonia spp.
Hosts
Very large host range.
Symptoms
Damping-off is a general term describing disease problems that occur while seeds are germinating or shortly thereafter, causing pre- and post-emergence disease problems. Very young seedlings can be infected causing rapid seedling death.
Spread
Damping-off disease problems are generally caused by soil-borne pathogens. Avoid planting in infested soil or infested sites and reusing plug trays.
Management
Maintain good sanitation. Avoid overwatering and limit frequent, light waterings. Germinate seedlings at recommended temperatures to promote rapid germination and development of seedlings. See specific pathogens for more detailed information.
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