Damping-off
Pathogen: multiple including Pythium spp. and Rhizoctonia spp.
Hosts: a very large host range
Symptoms: Damping off is a general term used to describe 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 soilborne 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.
