Premature Fruit Drop

Symptoms

• check_circleSmall, unripe fruits falling from the plant
• check_circleFlowers dropping before fruit sets
• check_circleFruit with no obvious damage falling prematurely
• check_circleHeavy drop following environmental stress

Causes

• arrow_rightPollination failure leaving fruits without seeds to sustain them
• arrow_rightSudden temperature fluctuations or cold nights
• arrow_rightInconsistent watering, especially drought stress
• arrow_rightNutrient deficiencies, particularly potassium
• arrow_rightOvercropping — the plant dropping excess fruit it cannot support
• arrow_rightPest or disease damage to developing fruits

Treatment

Stabilise environmental conditions. Water consistently and deeply. Apply a high-potassium feed during fruiting. For overcropping, thin remaining fruits to allow the plant to support a smaller, better crop.

Prevention

Encourage good pollination by growing in sheltered spots or hand-pollinating in greenhouses. Maintain consistent watering during fruit set. Feed with a balanced fertiliser containing potassium.