Damping off

Overview

When apparently healthy seedlings die suddenly soon after germination, the likely cause is damping-off.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Damping-off is caused by a number of soil fungi in several genera including Rhizoctonia, Pythium, Botrytis, Phytophthora, and Fusarium, and is often accompanied by low rates of germination.   Affected stem tissue on the seedlings may have black water-soaked lesions at the soil line which constrict the stem causing the seedlings to topple.  Occasionally, white/pink/gray cottony fungus may appear at the base of the stem.

Life Cycle

The fungi that cause damping-off are ubiquitous and can multiply and readily infect seedlings when conditions favor their development. There is no recommended cure for damping off.  Survivors are generally weak and non-productive.  However, there are actions that can reduce the likelihood of the condition reoccurring.  These include the elimination of pathogens and control of environmental conditions.

Integrated Pest Management Strategies

1. Sanitation. Dispose of all plants and soil in the affected containers. Wash all containers and tools with soapy water, and soak/rinse with a 1:10 solution of bleach to water.

2. Start clean. When starting seeds always use a sterile soil-less growing mix.  Do not use garden soil or reuse contaminated soil.

3. Provide an environment that is not conducive to the development of the disease. After seeds germinate place plants in an area with good air circulation. Remove plastic or glass coverings after half of the seeds have germinated. Bottom water seedlings and do not overwater. Thin out and fertilize seedlings after the first true leaves have developed.

Organic Strategies

Strategies 1, 2, and 3 are strictly organic approaches.

Pesticide Disclaimer: 

Always follow the product's label and ensure the product is effective against damping off. Not following the pesticide label before usage is a violation of federal law.