Eggplants grown during the summer often suffer from a condition where the top (umbilical) part of the fruit splits open, exposing the seeds and causing the fruit to become deflated. In severe cases, up to 1/4 of the crop may be affected, which significantly impacts both yield and market value.
The splitting at the top of the eggplant is primarily caused by a lack of calcium. This deficiency can result from several factors, including insufficient calcium in the soil, heavy rainfall that leaches nutrients, excessive nitrogen fertilizer use, high humidity levels, and serious plant diseases. During the early stages of fruit development, if the soil becomes too dry, the fruit's skin may harden. Later, when rain or uneven watering occurs, the inside of the fruit expands rapidly while the outer layer cannot keep up, leading to cracking. However, the most common cause of this issue is a lack of calcium in the plant. Below are the main causes and prevention strategies for calcium deficiency:
**Causes of Calcium Deficiency**
1. **Insufficient Calcium Fertilizer**: Many soils, especially those used for continuous cropping, lack adequate calcium. If farmers do not apply enough calcium-based fertilizers, this deficiency becomes more pronounced, particularly in greenhouses and controlled environments.
2. **Excessive Nitrogen Use**: Over-application of nitrogen fertilizers leads to an accumulation of ammonium nitrogen, which interferes with the plant’s ability to absorb calcium.
3. **Overwatering or Heavy Rainfall**: Excessive water or heavy rains can wash away essential calcium from the soil, leading to deficiency. This is especially problematic in summer when rainfall is frequent.
4. **Water Stress and Growth Disorders**: Poor water circulation within the plant can disrupt growth. This includes two situations: first, when the soil is too dry and the plant lacks sufficient water to absorb calcium; second, when heavy rain or overwatering increases humidity, reducing transpiration and preventing the roots from absorbing water and calcium effectively.
5. **Pests and Diseases**: In later growth stages, neglect in management can lead to serious pest and disease problems, such as verticillium wilt, blight, root rot, and nematode infestations. These issues weaken the root system, reducing its ability to absorb calcium and other nutrients.
**Prevention and Treatment Measures**
1. **Apply Calcium-Rich Fertilizers**: Ensure that calcium-based fertilizers are included in your regular fertilization schedule. This helps replenish the soil and support healthy fruit development.
2. **Proper Watering Practices**: Water the plants during dry periods but avoid overwatering. Drain excess water after heavy rains to prevent waterlogging and nutrient loss.
3. **Improve Field Management**: Along with pest control, regularly spray natural buckwheat extract and Shuofeng 481 solution every 20 days to promote root health and enhance nutrient absorption.
4. **Foliar Spraying During Rainy Seasons**: When air humidity is high, foliar spraying with a 0.3% solution of calcium and magnesium ammonium can help supplement calcium directly through the leaves. Apply this every 3–7 days for best results.
By addressing these factors, farmers can reduce the occurrence of top splitting in eggplants and improve both yield and quality. Implementing these practices ensures healthier crops and better marketability.
Taizhou TS HARDWARE Co., Ltd , https://www.shuwengroup.com