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SYMPTOMS

Seed rots and damping-off can be serious after planting, especially during years where the soil remains relatively cool and wet. Damaged seeds or plants are most susceptible to this problem. If infection by pathogenic fungi occurs after seed germination, the seedlings may be destroyed before or after emergence (pre- or post-emergence damping-off). Those infected plants that do survive typically are less vigorous and productive than non-infected plants.

The effects of damping-off may easily be confused with injuries sustained from herbicides, fertilizers, or some other chemical or mechanical damage. Below-ground portions of the plant should be critically examined for any evidence of lesions, spots, or rotting. Generally, injury from some type of chemical is more uniform in the field, but there are exceptions.

CONTROL

One of the most important aspects in the control of damping-off is to make sure the seed is of high quality. Avoid planting seed that contains cracks or is injured in any way. The incidence of damping-off can be further reduced by treating the seed with a fungicide prior to planting. Two of the most common chemicals used are captan and thiram. These chemicals will protect seed from the soil-borne pathogens, but have little effect against the seed-borne fungi.