Blossom
End Rot - Tomato And Pepper |
This is a non-pathogenic disease that is very common during extended dry periods.
It begins as light tan water-soaked lesion on the blossom end of the fruit.
The lesions enlarge and turn black and leathery. The open wounds can act as
an avenue for attack by fungi such as fusarium. This can drastically lower
the yield and lower marketability of the fruits. Fluctuating soil moisture
supply during the dry periods, and low calcium levels in the fruit are the
major causal factors.
Adequate supply of moisture from fruit formation to maturity,
and use of mulch (grass clippings, plastic, straw, shredded newspapers,
or plastic) to
conserve moisture. Avoid frequent shallow watering – water deep and then
wait five or more days before watering again. Proper mulching increases the number
of days between watering. |
