Pepper Fruit Rot in Square Foot Gardens: Drainage and Disease

Diagnosing the Rot

Dark, spreading patches on banana and Anaheim peppers (not just blossom end) indicate fruit rot from excess moisture, not blossom-end rot. Overhead watering + humid climate + possibly shallow beds = ideal for fungal/bacterial rots.

Immediate Actions

• Stop overhead watering—use drip/soaker at base.
• Limit water to 1.5 inches/week.
• Mulch with straw/compost to reduce splash.
• Apply organic fungicide (copper soap/Soap Shield) preventatively.

Long-Term Fix: Raised Bed Depth

Square foot beds need 12+ inches of soil for peppers. Cedar 2×12 frames provide depth, drainage, and durability. Your current humus/peat mix is good but likely too shallow, causing perched water table.

Crop Rotation

Move peppers to a new bed next year. Rotate with non-solanaceous crops (beans, greens, roots) on a 3-year cycle.