Scientific name
Pythium spp., Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium spp. and other soil-borne pathogens
Common Names
Damping Off, Seedling Blight
Damping Off is a common disease affecting seeds and young seedlings in propagation trays, nurseries and garden beds throughout Australia. It is caused by several soil-borne pathogens that attack germinating seeds and young stems under cool, wet or humid conditions. Infected seeds may fail to germinate, while emerged seedlings often develop a water-soaked stem at the soil line before collapsing and dying. Poor drainage, overwatering, overcrowding and contaminated growing media all increase the risk of disease.
Similar Diseases
- Pythium Root Rot (Pythium spp.)
- Rhizoctonia Root Rot (Rhizoctonia solani)
- Fusarium Wilt (Fusarium spp.)
- Phytophthora Root Rot (Phytophthora spp.)
SCENARIOS AND SOLUTIONS
When sowing seeds in trays or propagation cells: Treat the growing media with Apparent Captan 900 to help protect germinating seeds and young seedlings.
In nurseries with recurring damping off: Apply Apparent Mancozeb 750 preventatively and avoid overwatering or prolonged moisture around seedlings.
Where disease has previously affected propagation benches: Use fresh, sterile propagation media, disinfect trays and tools, and apply Apparent Captan 900 before sowing.
In humid propagation houses during extended wet weather: Improve airflow, reduce watering frequency and incorporate Apparent Mancozeb 750 into a preventative disease management program.
References
https://ipm.ucanr.edu/agriculture/turfgrass/seed-rot-and-damping-off/
