re: [CH] Artificial Light Chile Starters
Cross Country Nurseries (janie@chileplants.com)
Fri, 12 Feb 1999 08:08:06 -0500
>I have heard this Camolmile thing works but pray tell what is damping off??
Damp off is a fungus that is found on the soil surface, which attacks the
soft stem growth of young seedlings, having them turn black, crimp, and
fall over. It stop the flow of nutrients and water, so they die. It is
nasty, as it happens when things seem to be going so well, your seeds have
germinated, they're an inch tall or so and you're starting to plan on a
bountiful harvest!! It is usually caused by overwatering and poor
ventilation. It is very important not to overwater seedlings until both
plant roots and tops are developed enough to transpire away the moisture.
The medium should be slightly moist, but not wet, for extended periods of
time. It is good to let the surface dry out a bit between waterings. When
in doubt, *don't* water. Overwatering and fertilization also causes "leggy"
growth, so I do so minimally, increasing when they have produced the second
set of true leaves. If you cover the seedlings with plastic or domes (to
create a toasty micro-climate), be sure to remove it for at least 10
minutes daily, to allow fresh air to circulate.
janie
* Cross Country Nurseries
* Box 170, 199 Kingwood-Locktown Road
* Rosemont, New Jersey 08556-0170
http://www.chileplants.com
* growers of perennials & chile peppers