DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS
A water-soaked spot develops on the bottom of tomato and pepper fruit. The spot darkens and enlarges as the fruit ripens, and the skin becomes leathery.
Blossom end rot is not caused by a bacteria or a fungus, but by a deficiency of calcium, and an uneven water supply in the soil. More calcium is required by developing fruit than by the leaves or stems. When plant growth – which has been slowed by a lack of water – begins again, there is not enough calcium absorbed to enable fruits to develop properly. Blossom end rot is more common on earliest set fruits.

PREVENTION AND CONTROL
• Maintain uniform soil moisture during the growing season.
• Water deeply, and apply a mulch around the base of the plants.
• Liquid calcium can be applied in a spray form to foliage. (to print, right-click on this page)