A plant disorder caused by calcium deficiency, uneven soil moisture, or extreme temperature fluctuations. It causes decaying, sunken spots at the end of the fruit furthest from the stem. Excessive nitrogen fertilizer may make symptoms worse by reducing calcium uptake. Foliar sprays containing calcium will help. For a long-term fix, get a soil test to ensure that the pH is between 6.5 and 6.8 and amend soils with crushed eggshells and lime or gypsum to add calcium if necessary. Watering regularly and using mulch will also help prevent this problem.
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