Habanero Pepper Clones Failing: Fungus from Excess Humidity

BC gardener: overwintered habanero, took cuttings, rooted in peat pellets on heat mat under jars. Clones show moist grainy substance on leaf undersides, brown specks, curled/deformed new leaves, blackened cut edges. Asks for diagnosis.

Diagnosis: Fungal Disease (Botrytis / Powdery Mildew / Damping‑off)

Cause: **Excessive humidity** under jars + heat mat = perfect fungal incubator.

Immediate Steps

1. Remove jars — ventilate immediately.
2. Cut off affected leaves (sterilize scissors).
3. Spray with sulfur fungicide or neem oil (per label).
4. Reduce watering — let peat surface dry between waterings.

Prognosis

"Iffy" — clones are weak. Worth trying, but start fresh seeds as backup.

Better Cloning Protocol

• Humidity dome **with vents** (or prop jar).
• No heat mat once rooted (causes soft growth).
• Bright light, not direct sun.
• Pot up promptly once roots show.

Ventilation is everything for pepper clones.