Abstract:
Blossom-End Rot is a non-parasitic physiological disorder found in tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and some melons. It
occurs due to a low level of calcium in soil and high fluctuation of available water .Thus, a calcium deficiency occurs
during fruit maturation, which lead to lesions. The affected area can cover up to half fruit. This disorder can also occur
when there is an excess of calcium in the soil. Most of the water is lost by evapotranspiration and the calcium
accumulates into the leaves. Fruits do not transpirate as much as leaves, so less calcium is stored in the fruit, resulting in
a calcium deficiency in fruit. Another favorable factor is over-fertilization with some nutrients. One of the objectives of
the paper is the soils characterization on which have been identified plants affected by Blossom-End Rot. It were
studied greenhouses and polytunnels soils from several locations (Barlad, Spataresti-Falticeni, Bacau) in North-Eastern
Romania. Following the investigations, it was found that the symptoms on tomatoes were not due to a parasite action. In
the areas where Blossom-End Rot was identified, soil profiles were developed and analyzed. In the laboratory were
determined some properties of soil samples taken. The analytical data obtained in the laboratory reveals that this
disorder occurs on soils with a coarse texture, sand and loamy sand soils, moderate acidic, with a very low acidification
buffering capacity, located in the marginal areas of the polytunnels. The correct identification and differentiation of
Blossom-End Rot from gray rot caused by the pathogen Botrytis cinerea, presents a particular practical importance in
order to establish prevention measures and cultural recommendations
