What is Blossom End Rot?
Blossom end rot is a disease which strikes melons, tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. It is characterized by the development of a sunken, pitted area at the blossom end of the fruit, with the end of the fruit ultimately turning brown or black as it rots and withers away. The rest of the fruit may also fail to mature once blossom end rot develops. This condition is caused primarily by a lack of calcium, which inhibits the growth of the fruit, and a number of steps can be taken to control and prevent it. In addition to calcium deficiency, two other things contribute to the development of blossom end rot: watering habits and temperatures. If plants are watered unevenly, they are at increased risk of developing the disease, and likewise if temperatures fluctuate radically. Gardeners should always water plants deeply, evenly, and regularly, and plants should be covered in cold weather to prevent blossom end rot and other problems. The best way to deal with blossom end rot is to prevent it. B
