If you’re a tomato grower, you’re probably familiar with the dreaded tomato blossom end rot. This disease is caused by calcium deficiency in the fruit, and can be devastating to your harvest. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to prevent blossom end rot from occurring in the first place.
The best way to prevent tomato blossom end rot is to ensure that your plants have an adequate supply of calcium. Calcium is essential for healthy plant growth, and it’s especially important for tomatoes. You can provide your plants with calcium by adding lime or gypsum to the soil around the plants. This will help to make sure that the soil has a balanced pH and is able to absorb the calcium.
In addition to adding lime or gypsum to the soil, you should also make sure that your tomato plants are getting enough water. Tomato plants need a consistent supply of water in order to grow and produce fruit. If the soil is too dry, it can prevent the plants from absorbing the calcium they need. Make sure to water your tomato plants regularly, and check the soil moisture levels to ensure that it’s not too dry.
Finally, you should also take steps to reduce stress on the plants. Too much stress can lead to calcium deficiency, which can cause blossom end rot. Make sure to give your plants enough space to grow, and avoid overcrowding. You should also avoid over-fertilizing and over-watering your plants.
By following these simple steps, you can help to prevent blossom end rot and ensure a healthy harvest of tomatoes. With a little bit of effort, you can have a successful tomato crop and avoid the frustration of blossom end rot.
