Fixing Blossom End Rot in Container-Grown Tomatoes

Blossom end rot (BER) on tomatoes in 5-gallon buckets is frustrating, especially when plants are large and loaded with fruit. Adding lime now won't help—it works too slowly. The real culprit is usually inconsistent watering, which prevents calcium uptake.

Immediate Action Plan

1. Remove affected fruit. They drain energy from healthy development.
2. Monitor soil moisture daily. Water deeply only when the top inch feels dry (use the finger test).
3. Feed weekly with fish emulsion. Apply as a soil drench or foliar spray to provide readily available nutrients.

Container growing amplifies watering swings. Consistent, deep watering is the key to preventing BER on current and future fruit.