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Splitting

Fruits, roots, or stems splitting open — most common in root vegetables and fruits, usually caused by sudden uptake of water after a dry period.

Symptoms

  • check_circleDeep cracks or splits running along fruits or roots
  • check_circleSplitting often occurring after heavy rain following dry weather
  • check_circleExposed flesh at splits turning brown or rotting quickly
  • check_circleRoot vegetables forked or split at harvest

Causes

  • arrow_rightIrregular watering — dry spell followed by heavy moisture uptake
  • arrow_rightRapid cell expansion faster than skin or outer layer can stretch
  • arrow_rightCalcium deficiency weakening cell walls
  • arrow_rightSowing too densely causing misshapen or stressed roots

How to Diagnose

Splitting following a rain event or irrigation after dry conditions is the clearest indicator. Check watering logs and recent weather.

Treatment

Harvest split fruits or roots immediately to prevent rot. Adjust watering to maintain consistent soil moisture. Add calcium to soil if deficiency is suspected.

Prevention

Water deeply and consistently. Use mulch to buffer soil moisture levels against rainfall. Harvest root vegetables promptly at maturity rather than leaving them to over-develop.