Question
Hello,
I would like to know if there is something I can treat my soil with this fall to prevent dry rot on my tomatoes next year?
Thank you.
Linda

Answer
Linda, there are a couple of things you can do. One is to cover the area with black plastic over the fall and winter months to solarize the soil. This will kill all soilborne diseases hibernating over the winter.

Second, you can add 3 tsp. of epsom salts to each planting hole next spring. Just be sure to scratch it in the soil throroughly to prevent root burn.

Epsom salts contain magnesium which helps tomatoes draw in essential nutrients, specifically calcium and phosphorus, which will prevent dry rot. I also spray my tomatoes once per month with a solution of 3 tbs. epsom salts to one gallon of water. This has all but eliminated dry rot and other fungus diseases on the tomatoes.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike