What is causing my tomatoes to have a bad spot on the bottom and what can I do about it ? - Ask Extension
What can be done so my tomatoes don't have this bad spot on them?
Knowledgebase
What is causing my tomatoes to have a bad spot on the bottom and what can I do about it ? #876983
Asked July 12, 2024, 1:09 PM EDT
What can be done so my tomatoes don't have this bad spot on them?
Caroline County Maryland
Expert Response
This damage appears to be Blossom End Rot, a very common condition on tomatoes and certain other vegetables when they become stressed. The linked page provides more information, but in general, it is related to fluctuations in soil moisture level (like if plants get too dry between waterings) along with soil acidity (pH) and calcium levels. In the ground, soil calcium levels are not usually deficient and don't need supplementation, but in pots, plants that are under-fertilized might develop a deficiency. No actions will be able to remedy any fruits with existing damage, but crops ripening afterwards can be protected from developing Blossom End Rot by checking and adjusting (if needed) the moisture, acidity, and nutrient factors mentioned above.
Miri
Miri