Diagnosing Tomato Dry Rot: When to Call Your Extension Office

Tomato "dry rot" appearing only at ripening—despite organic practices—is frustrating. The exact cause (blossom end rot, anthracnose, late blight, etc.) depends heavily on your specific region, weather, and cultivar.

Why Local Expertise Matters

• Pathogen prevalence varies by county.
• Resistant varieties differ by zone.
• Cultural fixes (watering, mulching, calcium) are universal but need local calibration.

Immediate Steps

1. Contact your County Cooperative Extension—they know exactly what's circulating locally.
2. Submit photos or samples if possible.
3. Ask about resistant varieties for next season.

Don't Abandon Organics

Organic systems build long-term resilience. Synthetic fungicides offer a quick fix but undermine the soil biology that naturally suppresses many diseases. Stick with it—healthy soil = healthier plants over time.

General Organic Practices to Review

• Consistent, even watering (drip irrigation ideal).
• Mulch to prevent soil splash.
• Crop rotation (avoid solanaceae in same spot <3 years).
• Calcium amendments if blossom end rot is suspected.
• Remove/destroy affected fruit promptly.

Your Extension office is your best diagnostic partner. Use them—they're funded for exactly this.