AboutElyse Grau Expertise I can answer most questions on vegetable and fruit growing, in particular those that pertain to the Northwest, Midwest and other cool areas of the country. I prefer to use only organic/natural methods and materials.
Experience I have Master Gardener training and have been gardening for over 25 years. I use organic and natural methods only. I live on 5 acres and have a large vegetable garden, as well as orchard, grapevines and berries.
Question I have a couple green pepper plants in my garden and recently have been watching one of them produce a small fruit about the size of a silver dollar. I went out one morning to check on things (as I do every morning) and when i went to look at that particular fruit, I noticed that it was lying on the ground next to the plant! When i picked it up I noticed that it had about a 1/4 inch hole dug into it! Now the day before there was no sign that there was anything wrong with it. I was wondering what happened to it? Could it have been birds, or even squirrels? I am really stumped by this and would love it if you had an answer for me. Thank you very much!
Answer Galen:
The pepper probably fell from the plant either due to cold weather or incomplete fertilization. did you happen to notice if it had any seeds in it? The hole was likely from a slug or some other ground bug. It's not unusual for some early fruits to fall from some plants, curcubits will do this readily, and tomatoes will drop blossoms or small fruits if the nights are cold. You will get more in days to come, just be patient - I know its hard!
