Solution: Proper conditions for seed germination and seedling emergence also favor vigorous growth of fungi that cause damping-off.
Seed and roots must be kept moist and warm until the roots have penetrated the soil and the seedlings have emerged.
As the seedlings continue to grow, moisture at the soil surface can be decreased, and the damping-off fungi then will have less of an advantage.
When watering, thoroughly saturate the soil and then apply no more water until soil approaches the point at which plants wilt.
This procedure will keep surface soil dry for a maximum time.
Pasteurization of Soils is the best way to protect yourself. Soil for growing transplants in flats can be steam pasteurized.
If steam is used, the entire soil mass should be maintained at a temperature of 160 degrees F for 30 minutes.
The home gardener obviously does not have facilities to steam soil; however, pasteurized, packaged soil mix is available from many garden centers.
To prevent soil recontamination, all items such as tools, pots, and flats, etc., must be clean. The items can be cleaned in hot water (160 degrees F for 30 minutes) or in a chlorine bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water; soak for 30 minutes).
It is important to use fresh chlorine bleach-water solutions.
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