Things That Can Kill Your Seedlings

Growing plants from seeds is a rewarding endeavor that reaps big rewards. Caring for seedlings after germination isn’t hard, but attention to such things as damping off, nutrition, temperature, water, light and transplanting will guarantee stout seedlings that survive the rigors of outdoor living.
 
Even the most experienced gardener can benefit from some seedling care tips to boost their success. Those little green shoots poking through the soil send our hearts soaring with thoughts of fresh produce and the joy it brings to our summer entertaining. Damping off is a real threat when caring for seedlings after germination. Just because the seeds managed to sprout doesn’t mean the plants are out of danger.
 
Damping off is a fungal disease that causes the tiny plants to wither and die. It can stem from contaminated containers or soil and is worsened by incorrect watering practices.

Use a sterilized soil or soilless mix and wash containers carefully to prevent contaminating the seeds and plants. Keep plants in a sunny location during the day but move them at night to prevent cold drafts from stunting their growth. Too much water can cause tiny roots to rot while too little will see your new babies shrinking and even dying.



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