What causes blossom end rot in Roma Tomato?

Calcium deficiency in the developing fruit Inconsistent watering disrupting calcium uptake Over-fertilising with nitrogen or potassium blocking calcium Root damage from over-cultivation near the plant Waterlogged or compacted soil limiting root function

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Blossom End Rot in Roma Tomato

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

A determinate processing variety with small-to-medium oblong fruits (2–3 ounces) ideal for canning, sauce, and paste production. A physiological disorder — not a disease — that causes the bottom of fruits to turn dark, sunken, and leathery. Most common in tomatoes, peppers, courgettes, and aubergines.

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Roma Tomato care requirements

These care conditions are most relevant to blossom end rot in Roma Tomato. Check each one as a potential cause.

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Light

Full sun required; 6–8 hours daily minimum. More light improves yield and disease resistance.

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Water

Consistent moisture is crucial; water 1–1.5 inches weekly. Irregular watering increases disease risk and fruit problems. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to keep foliage dry.

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Soil

Well-draining soil enriched with compost or aged manure. Maintain pH 6.0–6.8. Avoid overly rich soil, which promotes excess foliage.

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Symptoms to look for in Roma Tomato

fiber_manual_recordDark, sunken, water-soaked patch at the blossom end of fruit
fiber_manual_recordPatch turning brown or black and leathery as it dries
fiber_manual_recordAffects developing fruits, not the whole plant
fiber_manual_recordHealthy-looking foliage despite affected fruit

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Common causes in Roma Tomato

fiber_manual_recordCalcium deficiency in the developing fruit
fiber_manual_recordInconsistent watering disrupting calcium uptake
fiber_manual_recordOver-fertilising with nitrogen or potassium blocking calcium
fiber_manual_recordRoot damage from over-cultivation near the plant
fiber_manual_recordWaterlogged or compacted soil limiting root function

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How to diagnose blossom end rot in Roma Tomato

The distinctive dark sunken patch at the base of fruits is the key sign. Soil calcium is rarely actually low — the problem is usually that the plant cannot take it up fast enough due to irregular watering.

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How to treat blossom end rot in Roma Tomato

Remove affected fruits. Foliar spray with calcium chloride solution can help in the short term. Most importantly, stabilise watering to ensure consistent calcium delivery to developing fruits.

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Preventing blossom end rot in Roma Tomato

Water deeply and consistently. Mulch to retain moisture. Avoid excess nitrogen. Do not disturb roots during the growing season. Add lime to acidic soils before planting.