>There is a difference between exposure to ambient levels of pathogens
>and exposure to a rampant infection of pathogens. Yeah, plants are
>exposed to ambient stuff all the time. Nothing can be done about
>that, really.
>
>But what about watering your plants with a solution of viable fungus
>(spores, mycelia) that is much more concentrated than ambient levels?
Concentrations don't matter at all. It is the conditions in which the
spores land that make the difference. If 1 or 1000 spores land in a
suitable growing environment, they will grow. It may take slightly longer
for a single spore to become a problem, but it will happen.
>not unheard of in standard horticulture for people to sanitize their
>cutting instruments when pruning from plant to plant, so as to not
>spread viruses or other pathogens. Boiling your peat moss to make
>tea is just another precaution.
We weren't discussing pruning, nor were we talking about standard
precautions...... (Everyone practcing safe plants?) We are talking about
spores/fungi that must *presumably* be in our peat.
So you say the solution is to boil it. It just seems like a lot of trouble
and "overkilling" in essence. I am by no meant an expert on this, I just
know what
works for me. *** All I care about is results.*** If I had the misfortune
of rampant fungal/bacterial problems, then perhaps I would see the need to
change my techniques. (knock on wood)
I am sure this debate could go on and on, but I have said my peace and won't
continue it on the listserver to clog everyone's mailboxes. (unless anyone
else can shed some new light?)
Take care & keep on growing,
-Tom- Hayes