A Gardeners Forum Forums General Discussion The Food Garden Forum Herbs Basil Seeds

I'm having a problem growing plants from seeds this year. The latest problem is with cinammon basil. They sprout but then die. I'm thinking damp off so I tried the hydrogen peroxide 10% solution but that didn't help. I'm thinking maybe the potting soil is the problem. It was from last year and I let it dry out. So now it's pretty clumpy and it dries out really quickly.

What would you suggest?

I was having a similar problem, I believe it's the soil.
I've been using Shultz's seed Starter Soil, works pretty well so far as I can tell. :)

Although I'm only about a week in. :)

I'm on my 2nd set of basil seeds/sprouts---first time I used the soil that came in the kit---second time I just used old soil----I think I will try the soil you recomment, Medon--thanks

Oh, yeah. This soil is pretty good, methinks. Since I posted a reply to you, my plants have grown up about half an inch each. /ponder

I'm not an expert. Currently on my first grow "season" (grow tent). Ran into several problems myself. I did however have no problem with germination of my basil. But if i was you id look into using a grow mat with starter plugs. Or you can try and put it in a 75-85 degree location. Ive never actually done it or seen how it works but if you youtube it im sure the grow mat is best way to go. According to a friend of mine starter plugs can be moved to larger pots quite easily and the plants roots will grow straight through the plug and into the soil. I'm experimenting right now and am using a 65 watt flood light in a cheap fixture from home depot. i measured the heat it throws off with my accu rite digital temperature and humidity guage. keeps the soil a bit warm from a foot away (solo cups). Does cause a little dryness though so i decided to mist it down once a day ensuring soil moisture. should be about 5 days left till i see some action. Plugs however are generally not used with soil i think and are used in hydroponic systems. Also, regular potting soil is the way to go i think. Not sure if the soil is your issue. Sounds like it needs a little warmth to me and some added misting.