Rotting Peppers - Ask Extension
I'm a home gardener. This year for some reason whenever my peppers begin to change color they also begin to rot. This happens to different varieties a...
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Rotting Peppers #722493
Asked September 09, 2020, 9:40 PM EDT
I'm a home gardener. This year for some reason whenever my peppers begin to change color they also begin to rot. This happens to different varieties and in different growing media. I have raised beds as well as a hydroponic system and it happens in both. Growth is normal and healthy until color change. Looks like blossom end rot but it's happening in 2 separate types of growing. Any ideas?
Wayne County Michigan
Expert Response
Thanks for the question. This does appears to be blossom end rot, the same as what is found in tomatoes. It is a calcium deficiency due to uneven watering or nutrient imbalances. Check out the following links for information:
- https://www.canr.msu.edu/uploads/resources/pdfs/blossom-end_rot2011.pdf
- https://ucanr.edu/sites/placernevadasmallfarms/files/86509.pdf
You are right to question the timing of this problem. Blossom end rot begins early in the fruit development. Damage may not be visible externally in all cases. It could be that the ripening process makes it more apparent. What are you seeing when you cut these peppers open?
