Blackleg is a fungal disease that destroys seedlings within hours. The pathogen lives in the soil and is activated by waterlogging and cold at the root collar. Traditional watering from a watering can creates stagnant moisture in the top layer of soil – an ideal environment for fungus.
The roots of young seedlings are located superficially. Fine spraying from a spray bottle moistens only the top layer of soil, without overcooling the roots and without creating a “swamp” near the stem. The soil remains loose and breathable, which eliminates the development of rot.
Correct moisturizing technology
- Use a spray bottle with a fine spray mode.
- Use only settled water at room temperature.
- The soil surface and seedlings are irrigated from a distance of 15-20 cm until they have a light, damp sheen.
- The procedure is repeated only after the top layer of soil has dried by 5-7 mm.
Additional protection measures
- The soil is pre-disinfected.
- The sowing is not thickened.
- The containers are provided with drainage holes.
- Eliminates drafts from the windowsill.
The transition to regular watering is possible only after picking, when the plants are stronger. It is enough to follow this rule in the first month of growing to get healthy, stocky seedlings.
