Blossom end rot is a very common problem on green and ripe tomatoes. It first appears as a sunken, brownish black spot 1 ⁄2 to 1 inch in diameter on the blossom end of the fruit. These spots may gradually increase in size. Although blossom end rot itself causes only local injury, secondary organisms frequently invade the lesion and cause complete rotting of the fruit.
It often occurs in rapidly developing fruit during periods of hot, dry weather and tends to have the greatest impact on the earliestmaturing fruit. Blossom end rot is caused by a calcium deficiency that is related to wide fluctuations in available moisture. Iowa soils contain plenty of calcium, so the addition of calcium will not solve the problem. To prevent blossom end rot, maintain a steady rate of plant growth without stress.
A consistent and ample supply of moisture can reduce the problem by helping to maintain a steady flow of calcium from the soil to the fruit. Mulching also will help by conserving soil moisture. Blossom end rot is more serious when an excess of nitrogen fertilizer has been applied.
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