Recommendations for the use of agricultural chemicals are included in this publication as a convenience to the reader. Wait as long as possible before using a fungicide as younger seedlings are more susceptible to fungicide injury than older seedlings. Do not use fungicides unless damping-off becomes or has been a problem. = (broad spectrum fungicide) R = (active against Rhizoctonia, Sclerotina, Fusarium, Botrytis) P = (active against Phytophthora and Pythium)Īll of these fungicides can cause some stunting and yellowing of young seedlings. Some fungicides used to control damping-off are listed below along with general rates (follow specific crop limitations and rates on the manufacturer's label): Trade Name* Check the current North Carolina Agricultural Chemicals Manual and the label carefully to be sure of the proper fungicide and rate to be used on a particular crop. Several applications of the fungicide may be necessary, If the specific fungus causing damping-off is not known, one broad spectrum fungicide (captan or ferbam), two specific fungicides (benomyl plus, etridiazole or metalaxyl) or a prepared combination of fungicides (etridiazole + thiophanate methyl) should be used. Rapid identification of the causal fungus should be obtained so that proper chemicals can be applied (see county agent for diagnosis). Growing conditions should be improved and flats or areas of bed with damping-off should be carefully removed from the growing area. If the above preventive control measures fail, several fungicides are available that may be effective if applied as a drench or heavy spray as soon as the first symptoms of damping-off are observed. This can be done by increasing greenhouse temperature, increasing air circulation and ventilation, reducing the frequency of watering, providing better water drainage by ditching inside and outside the plant bed structure or greenhouse, and by increasing the amount of light by removing dirty covers, overhanging branches, removing shading materials, etc.Ĭhemical Control Skip to Chemical Control Once damping-off has started in a bed or flat, its spread may be reduced by providing drier conditions for better seedling growth. For bedding plant operations, it may be more practical to buy a sterilized soilless mix and eliminate steps 1 and 2 above. Many outbreaks of damping-off in North Carolina can be attributed to poor sanitation practices after treating the soil. Strict sanitation to avoid reinfesting treated soil with these fungi.Proper planting depth and soil temperature to assure rapid seeding emergence and growth.Proper seeding rates to avoid thick plant stands, poor air movement and low light intensity. The use of fungicide-treated seed with high germination (see North Carolina Agricultural Chemicals Manual specify treated seed before purchasing),.Proper soil treatment with heat or chemicals to reduce the level of fungi that cause damping-off.Proper soil preparation and management to provide for good soil drainage, structure, aeration, water-holding capacity and plant nutrition by including proper amounts of fertilizer and lime according to the soil test report.Sanitize all seed trays and flats and store them in a clean location when not in use.The general methods employed to prevent damping-off consists of: Once damping-off has started in a plant bed or seedling flat, it may be difficult to control. The best control of damping-off is to avoid it altogether. Prevention & Cultural Management Skip to Prevention & Cultural Management
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