Nothing is more disappointing than picking a perfect tomato only to find its bottom soft, black, and rotten. Blossom end rot (BER) isn’t limited to tomatoes—it also affects peppers, eggplant, squash, and melons. Caused by insufficient calcium and inconsistent watering during rapid growth, BER is preventable with proper care and planning.
Why Calcium Matters for Your Vegetables
Calcium is essential for healthy plant development. When vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, melons, and eggplant don’t receive enough calcium, the tissue at the blossom end of the fruit deteriorates. Testing your soil’s pH and calcium levels, maintaining consistent watering, and avoiding excessive fertilization are key to preventing BER in your garden.
Start Prevention Before Planting
Soil pH directly affects how much calcium is available to plants. Vegetables generally thrive in soil with a pH of 6.2–6.8, but those prone to BER need a pH of 6.5–6.8. At lower pH levels, calcium becomes chemically bound in the soil, making it inaccessible to plants during critical growth periods. Even with the right pH, insufficient calcium in the soil can still lead to BER.
The Role of Watering and Fertilization
Inconsistent watering disrupts nutrient absorption. Without adequate moisture, plants can’t absorb nutrients, leading to small, weak plants that are vulnerable to diseases, pests, and deficiencies—including BER.
Excessive fertilization can also trigger BER by accelerating plant growth beyond its nutrient absorption capacity. When plants grow too quickly, they can’t take in enough calcium, resulting in nutrient imbalances and susceptibility to BER.
Can BER Be Fixed This Season?
Adding calcium to your soil won’t immediately reverse BER in this year’s crop, but it can improve soil health for the next season. Fortunately, we carry easy-to-use calcium sprays that can help save much of your current harvest.
Need Help? Visit Us for Expert Advice and Supplies!
Visit your local Meadows Farms for expert advice and a selection of products to combat blossom end rot. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the best solutions for your current crops and provide tips ensure BER is never an issue in your garden again!