Damping off is a common problem for seedlings. It’s caused by soil-borne fungi and can quickly kill young plants, often before they even fully grow.
How to Spot Damping Off
- Seedlings suddenly collapse at soil level
- Stems look soft, thin, or water-soaked
- Leaves may yellow or wilt even though soil is moist
- Often affects seeds or very young seedlings
Why It Happens
Damping off thrives when seedlings are:
- Grown in cold, wet, poorly-draining soil
- Crowded together with poor airflow
- Exposed to fluctuating temperatures
What Helps
- Use fresh, well-draining seed compost
- Avoid overwatering—keep soil just moist, not soggy
- Space seedlings to allow airflow
- Remove affected seedlings immediately to prevent spread
Biological & Preventative Measures
- Some beneficial microbes in seed compost can reduce damping off naturally
- Avoid reusing old compost or soil for new seedlings
- Water seedlings from the base to keep foliage dry
Sproot Top Tip
Healthy seedlings need space, airflow, and careful watering. Early attention prevents damping off and gives young plants the best start.
