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.
We have 2 red pepper plants that have been very disappointing this year - the plants are vibrant...but when the peppers begin to mature - they begin to shrivel. Long before they are completely red...then they start to turn black - not just a few are affected...the entire crop - very frustrating.
We have used a drip water system...with a once a week deep watering...we also mulch....and fertilize monthly with a vegetable fertilizer. We live in Sacramento CA and the summer has been relatively mild this year with limited days over 100 degrees. Our nights cool down to the 50's and low 60's - while our highs regularly reach low to high 90's. Haven't had a drop of rain since late may.
Help?
Randy
Answer Randy:
From the photo it looks like something is eating it, leaving it vulnerable to fungus, which is probably what is making it turn black. If you still have some good peppers on the plant, try covering it with garden cloth (e.g. Remay) and see if that helps. If you can identify the pest, that would help determine the best control.
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