Damping Off
/DAMP-ing OFF/🦠 Diseases● Basic
Also known as: damping-off
A common disease of seedlings caused by soil-borne fungi (Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, Phytophthora). Affected seedlings develop water-soaked, constricted stems at the soil line and topple over. Prevention includes using sterile media, providing good air circulation, avoiding overwatering, and not sowing too densely.
Etymology
English damp (moisture) + off (dying away)
Example
“Improve air circulation and reduce watering to prevent damping off in your seed starting trays.”