Hypocotyl Rot and Root Rot

Conifer seedlings in nursery beds develop brown stem rot near the soil line, particularly after warm weather. Fusarium and Phytophthora cause damping-off and seedling death. Use well-drained soil, rotate beds with non-susceptible crops, avoid legume covers, and disinfect containers thoroughly. Avoid reusing old growth blocks.

Avoid poorly drained soil. Use properly conditioned seeds. Improve drainage around susceptible plants and avoid overwatering. Remove affected material and dispose of it away from the garden. When replanting, choose resistant varieties and amend the soil for better drainage if waterlogging was part of the problem.