Blush as a solution to Blotchy Ripening in Tomato

The Blotchy Ripening, is a physiological disorder of the fruit of the tomato which consists of an irregular maturation with lack of uniformity. It occurs in all varieties, times of cultivation and types of soil.

The symptoms can vary in intensity and are confused with those produced by the Mosaic Virus (TMV) or those caused by Botrytis. They are usually:

• Presence of shoulders of color between green and dark gray or yellow to pale red
• Irregular ripening can also occur internally
• The problem becomes visible only at an advanced stage, from the beginning of maturation (color change).
• Also, the red fruit has several small spots of various colors (pale red, yellow, greenish gray, etc.) that give the appearance of an irregular ripening fruit.
• It is located mainly in the upper part of the fruit.

Causes:

• Low potassium levels affect its incidence.
• Excessive Fertilization with Nitrogen (N)
• High Condutivity is also related to its appearance.
• Poor absorption of mainly Calcium and Boron are also related to its appearance.
• Poor handling of pruning is also related as it disturbs the normal filling of the fruits.
• Variations of temperatures and luminosity during the ripening of the fruits.
• High relative humidity in the environment and soil.

Once the synthesis of lycopene, a process known as carotenogenesis, begins, the abscisic acid becomes a key regulator. Blush by eCoCulture combines in its formulation molybdenum and boron. The first is a key element in the formation of ABA (abcisic acid) acting as a key cofactor in the synthesis of carotenoids and, on the other hand, is a structural part of the oxidase enzyme that transforms the acid aldehyde abscission into the hormone ABA. Boron improves the formation of sugars in the fruit giving it a higher º Brix index.

Used at a dose of 2 cc / L, Blush decreases the incidence of Blotchy increasing the profitability of the producer.

To obtain the best result, combine with XStress at a dose of 1,5cc/L and NHDeltaK at a dose of 5 cc / L. Repeat every 7-10 days to protect the fruit that is still in formation.

More information about Blush here.
See tomato cultivation program here.