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Silica
Dissolve ¼ tsp. of 30% potassium silicate in a gallon of water. Or: Boil ¼ cup of dried horsetail in 1 gallon of water for 20 minutes. Let liquid stand overnight. Filter through coffee filter or cheese cloth.
Diseases Controlled
Damping-off; powdery mildew
How Often to Apply
Use as spray or, at least on cucumber, as a root drench (apply to base of plant, add water with hose until soil is soaked). Apply every 14 days.
Precautions
Handle silica salts with extreme care, as the concentrated solution is strongly alkaline. Spray small area to check for plant damage. Wait at least two days before treating entire plant.