The use of large amounts of un-decomposed wood bark for walkways was noted. The presence of wood bark can act as a magnet to a host of blights, rots, and diseases which thrive upon such materials. These pathogens have then only a short distance to cover before infecting a large number of chile seedlings. In using compost in seed beds, only well composted, aged materials should be used. Enclosing the sides of the seed bed with insect netting is also recommended.
Insects are the major vector by which most common virii spread.
At no other time are chiles so susceptible to infection, and so densely packed, as when they are in the seed bed. Virus and diseases can very quickly spread to encompass many thousands of plants in a very short time. Preventive practices exercised here will pay great dividends later in the field. The best possible soil should be used for the beds. In addition the use of phosphorous banding or a root starter will ensure that the seedlings establish the root structure needed for a healthy start after transplanting.