Blossom end rot on tomatoes photo courtesy of extension.unh.edu
Blossom end rot is a relatively common plant disorder that is primarily caused by a calcium deficiency in the soil. It can occur in various vegetables and fruits but is most commonly found in tomatoes.
Symptoms:
- Round, sunken, discolored spot on the blossom end.
- The spots will continue to enlarge and turn dark brown to black with a leathery texture.
- The areas will eventually rot and spoil the entire fruit.
Susceptibility:
- Planting in areas of extreme moisture fluctuations, very wet to very dry.
- These conditions are more common in potted or containerized plants.
- Soil calcium is depleted more quickly, leading to blossom end rot.
Photo courtesy of extension.umn.edu
Blossom end rot is relatively common and difficult to reverse once it begins. However, there are ways to prevent it from developing and controlling it on plants that have just started showing signs of the disease.
Gertens offers a remedy proven to help in the prevention and treatment of blossom end rot.
- Fertilize your tomatoes and other vegetables with Tomato Maker 4-2-6.
- Tomato Maker is a natural based fertilizer and soil conditioner that produces a robust crop of firm, tasty tomatoes.
- It is a unique blend containing natural sources of major nutrients combined with Calcium, Magnesium, and Iron.
- The available calcium, 6.0%, corrects calcium deficiencies which lead to blossom end rot.
Because blossom end rot is difficult to reverse, start using Tomato Maker when seeding or transplanting tomatoes into the garden. Water in after each application. It can also be partially dissolved in water and poured over the plant's root-zone. Mix at the rate of 1 tablespoon of Tomato Maker per 1 pint (16 oz.) of water. Apply Tomato Maker about every three weeks for best results.
Note: You can apply to plants starting to show signs of blossom end rot to prevent new tomatoes from developing it.
The Gerten Experts are always available to answer your questions!