Tomato Troubles: Blossom End Rot, Leaf Dieback, and Fruit Splitting Solved

Diagnosis

Leaves dying, fruit with brown bottoms (blossom end rot), and splitting fruit near ripening. These are classic signs of calcium deficiency and irregular watering.

Blossom End Rot

Calcium moves with water in the plant. Fluctuating soil moisture (too dry/too wet) prevents calcium uptake. Leaves may show rolled margins, necrosis, chlorosis, tip scorch.

Immediate Treatments

• Calcium sprays: Calcium nitrate or calcium chloride foliar sprays (available at garden centers) work faster than soil amendments.
• Consistent moisture: Avoid drought stress and waterlogging. Mulch to stabilize soil moisture.
• Balanced fertilizer: Use water-soluble fertilizer regularly; choose higher phosphorus (e.g., 10-30-10) for fruiting.

Long-Term Fix

Incorporate agricultural lime into soil before next season to raise calcium levels.

Fruit Splitting

Caused by sudden heavy water uptake after dry periods (rain or overwatering). Maintain even soil moisture.