Zucchini Blossom End Rot: Complete Treatment Guide

Zucchini Blossom End Rot

What is Zucchini Blossom End Rot?

Symptoms

  • Water-soaked spots at blossom end
  • Dark brown to black lesions
  • Sunken, leathery texture
  • Affects developing fruits
  • Secondary mold growth
  • Inedible damaged portions

What Causes Zucchini Blossom End Rot?

  • Calcium deficiency
  • Irregular watering
  • Poor calcium uptake
  • High nitrogen levels
  • Root damage
  • Soil pH imbalance

How to Treat Zucchini Blossom End Rot

Organic Treatments

  • Apply crushed eggshells
  • Add bone meal
  • Use calcium-rich compost
  • Apply gypsum
  • Maintain consistent moisture
  • Add dolomitic lime if needed

Chemical Treatments

  • Apply calcium nitrate
  • Use calcium chloride spray
  • Foliar calcium application
  • Balanced fertilizer with calcium

Cultural Controls

  • Consistent watering schedule
  • Proper mulching
  • Avoid root damage
  • Monitor soil pH
  • Reduce nitrogen
  • Improve soil drainage

How to Prevent Zucchini Blossom End Rot

  • Soil test before planting
  • Add calcium before season
  • Maintain even moisture
  • Use mulch
  • Proper pH (6.0-7.5)
  • Avoid over-fertilizing

Recommended Fertilizers for Zucchini Blossom End Rot