Blossom end rot is a common problem in tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, and other vegetables. It appears as a dark, sunken spot at the blossom end of fruits, caused by a calcium deficiency in developing fruit cells. The good news is, with some simple practices, you can prevent and treat it effectively.
Understanding Blossom End Rot
Blossom end rot (BER) typically arises from a lack of calcium in the fruit, often due to inconsistent watering, rapid plant growth, or overly salty soil. While plants may have enough calcium in the soil, uneven moisture can limit calcium uptake, leading to rot.
Symptoms and Affected Plants
BER is visible as:
- Tomatoes: A dark, leathery patch on the bottom.
- Zucchini and Peppers: Similar sunken, discolored spots at the blossom end.
The condition isn’t contagious, so affected plants won’t harm others nearby. However, affected fruits are best removed early, allowing the plant to focus on healthier growth.
Causes of Blossom End Rot
- Calcium Deficiency: Even if soil has calcium, if it doesn’t reach the fruit due to irregular watering, it can lead to BER.
- Inconsistent Watering: This hinders calcium distribution, especially during hot weather.
- Soil Imbalance: Excessive nitrogen or too much acidic soil can interfere with calcium availability.
Prevention and Management of Blossom End Rot
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