Solving Blossom End Rot and Leaf Mold in a Mature Vegetable Garden: pH, Calcium, and Water Management

35×17 ft garden, 5 years old. First 2 years great; now cucumber leaf mold and blossom end rot on tomatoes, peppers, eggplant. Good drainage, watering seems fine. Asks calcium fertilizer rate and other suggestions.

First: Check pH

Target 6.5. If low, 40 lb pelletized lime/1000 sq ft raises ~0.5 pH.

Blossom End Rot = Calcium Uptake Issue

Caused by excessive soil moisture. Calcium unavailable in wet soil. Apply liquid calcium (any garden center) for quick fix.

Leaf Diseases

• Avoid overhead watering.
• Don't work in garden when foliage wet (spreads disease).
• Spray fungicide if severe; consult local garden center.

Long-Term

Till yearly, incorporate organic matter to improve drainage and calcium availability over time.