Seeds are also more likely to rot in the wet ground. Killebrew said fertilizers are valuable tools in a gardener's disease control program because they help grow stronger, healthier vegetable plants which tend to be more resistant to diseases. He recommended taking a soil sample from garden areas to be tested for fertility and nematodes. Nematodes are microscopic worms in soil that feed on roots of susceptible tomatoes, peas and other garden vegetables. Gardeners also have the options of rotating crops and using non-host plants that are not susceptible to nematodes.
Gardens still have a good chance of being successful and producing healthy plants.
For further information or to obtain a soil-testing package, contact your local county extension office. Recommendations on this web site do not endorse any commercial products or trade names.