Basil Seedling Damping Off and Mold: Watering and Pot Size Fixes

White mold on soil = too wet. Causes:

• Pots too large (soil stays wet).
• Watering too frequently.

Correct Method

1. Start seeds in small containers (cells/pellets).
2. Use seed-starting mix, not garden/potting soil.
3. Water only when soil barely damp at 1" depth.
4. Thin to one seedling per cell.
5. Transplant to 3–4" pot at 6–8 leaves.
6. Increase pot size gradually (1–2" at a time).
7. Plant out when temps >40°F, soil >60°F.

Additional Tips

• Check for basil downy mildew (garden.org link).
• Harvest by cutting above 4 lowest leaves for bushier growth.
• Warmth and light essential.