Best Management Practices

Disinfest media if it is being reused and make sure commercial media has been tested for pathogens, pests, and weed seeds (97).  Avoid using bark from areas infested with Phytophthora ramorum, for the substrate can be contaminated.  Properly composting media and plant debris can effectively disinfest these materials.  Mix and store all media components on cement slabs, not on soil where contamination of these components can occur.  Store compost in a separate area that is easy to clean, and make sure it is free of standing water, insects, pathogens, weeds, mosses, and liverworts.  Use new pots, flats, and trays or disinfect those that are reused.  Keep pots off of bare soil as well (97).