Tomatoes suffering from blossom end rot are fine to eat (apart from the diseased bit). Cut away the leathery, sunken section at the blossom end, and the firm, red flesh underneath is perfectly wholesome and delicious. No toxins are formed, and it spreads no more than the diseases do.
Cut out the affected part with a sharp knife. Do not remove more than the black or brown, leathery portion, leaving at least a half-inch of healthy margin all around the spot. I save over ninety per cent of the fruit in this way. Then wash your hands before eating.
Identification
- Affected area: Dark sunken spot at blossom end only
- Healthy tissue: Firm texture with normal color
- Odor check: No foul smell indicates safety
Preparation
- Cut vertically through unaffected areas
- Remove entire leathery section with margin
- Rinse under cool running water
Your plants also benefit from the prompt removal of spoiled fruits. If a fruit is starting to rot, its energy saps the healthy growth of the other fruits on the stem, the leaf tips, and so forth. Cut it off at once. I usually use my pruning shears. With this one action, I have doubled my crop many times over.
Maintain a schedule for irrigation to prevent future occurrences. Maintain an ideal soil pH level of 6.5 - 7.0; supplementation of calcium during the flowering stage will greatly reduce the risk of blossom end rot. This will ensure that, by this time next year, your tomatoes will have had a perfect growing season.
Never throw away parts of affected crops in the compost pile. Instead, bury them away from the garden beds to prevent the spread of spores. To do this, I usually dig a twelve-inch pit for the affected crop. Healthy practices in the garden help you maintain a healthy harvest in the future.
Read the full article: Prevent Blossom End Rot: Ultimate Garden Guide
