Late Blight on Peppers: Sanitation and Cultural Control

Green peppers show soft brown spots at stem end (not blossom end). Overhead watering, no chemicals, healthy leaves, 5-10% fruit affected. Photo shows whitish centers.

Late Blight Confirmation

Phytophthora (fungus-like) causes stem-end rot favored by wet conditions, overhead water, rain. Affects tomatoes too.

Immediate Actions

• Remove/destroy ALL affected fruit (bag, remove from garden).
• STOP overhead watering. Water soil only.
• Mulch to prevent soil splash.
• If overhead necessary: early AM only.
• End season: remove/burn all plant material (roots too).
• Rotate: no peppers/tomatoes in same spot next year.

Chemical Limitations

Few home gardener fungicides for late blight. Sanitation and environment are primary tools. Research "Late Blight of Pepper" for details.