Question

Habanero fruit   QUESTION: I am trying to grow Habanero peppers and one of my plants has fruit that seems to be turning brown  and the leaves are curling up. I have not seen any bugs, the soil is not overwatered, and I do give them full sun. I am feeding them with a mild solution of Miracle Grow cactus food with 2% Nitrogen, 7% Phosphate, 7% Potash.  Am I lacking a specific nutrient oris there a specific plant food that you recommend? The other plants I have are OK and producing well, though the ripening is a bit slow.  I live in Florida and it does get pretty warm here.  Any suggestions?

Thank you
Brian

ANSWER: I know you stated that the plant has not been over-watered, but keep in mind that the primary reason fruit turns brown is due to inconsistent watering. This is especially true when plants are grown in containers.

The one mineral needed to enhance a plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients is magnesium. Most soils in the U.S. are depleted of magnesium. I would suggest purchasing a water-soluble fertilizer made specifically for tomatoes and peppers. Miracle-gro sells a tomato fertilizer high in magnesium.

If growing in containers, always use 1/2 to 2/3 the recommended ratio to ensure you do not burn the roots. Other than that, always ensure that the soil is watered deeply to force the roots down. If using containers, only water when the top 2" of soil is dry, and always water until the excess runs through the drainage hole.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------


HABANERO MOLD   QUESTION: I also am having problems with one plant that has white flakes and black mold on the leaves and fruit.  I have looked this up and several sites suggested soapy water for the bugs, but what can I use for the mold that is not very toxic?  I also have heard that epsome salts is good for plants.  Is this the type of magnesium that you are refering to?

Thank you,
Brian

Answer
From your photo, it definitely looks like a fungus disease. I use a copper fungicide to ward off these types of diseases. The one organic solution that I use regularly is Soap Shield from Gardens Alive. I am attaching a link to their site for your review. I would highly recommend surfing through their website and Planet Natural for many organic products that are non-toxic and great for vegetable gardens. They include both organic insecticides and several different fungicides.

http://www.gardensalive.com/Default.asp?bhcd2=1137017968

http://www.planetnatural.com/site/xdpy/sgc/Natural%20Pest%20Control/Fungicides%2

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike