Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
FIGURE 5.13
Blossom-end rot (BER) of tomatoes.
Figure 5.13. This is normally caused by insufficient calcium. It results in
tissue breakdown producing a dry, black, leathery appearance of the fruit
on the blossom end. The growing points of the plants at the same time will
stop expanding and in severe cases will eventually die.
However, environmental factors or watering may also contribute to
growth problems. Insufficient watering, too long of periods between irri-
gation cycles, may also cause BER. If plants wilt they will probably form
BER of fruit. So the calcium deficiency in this case is not caused by insuf-
ficient calcium in the nutrient solution but by inadequate watering. Another
symptom of insufficient or too frequent irrigation cycles is fruit cracking
(Figure 5.14). This may occur more frequently under very intense light or
excess temperatures. Cool temperatures and high relative humidity, espe-
cially at the base of the plant, can cause deformation of fruit or what is
termed “catfacing” (Figure 5.15).
These are only a few examples to make you aware that plant growth dis-
orders may be a result of nutrition, pest, disease, environmental conditions,
or watering. Be vigilant to recognize symptoms and relate what may be
their cause early in the expression of any growth abnormalities. Then you
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