Blossom End Rot
Blossom end rot
Common name
Blossom end root
Causal agent
It is caused by a nutritional deficiency of calcium in the plant either due to unavailability in the soil or impairment of uptake of calcium by the plant. Drought conditions, waterlogged soil, and damaged roots can all cause blossom-end root disease.
Symptoms & Signs
It starts with the appearance of water-soaked areas on the blossom end of the fruits, especially tomatoes. The spot starts growing and changes its color to brown and finally to black. The tissue around the area also becomes soft and mushy. It usually appears in the initial stages of fruit formation when the fruit is still green. Bacteria and fungi may attack the fruit and completely rot it from the inside.
Time of concern
Throughout the year
Common hosts
Tomato
Pepper
Zucchini
Eggplant
Capsicum