PRO TIPS - GROWING VEGETABLES

Vegetables are generally easy to grow, but even well-tended gardens can experience occasional issues. This guide outlines some of the most common vegetable growing problems, what causes them, and practical steps you can take to correct or prevent them.

TOMATOES, PEPPERS & EGGPLANTS

Leaf Roll

A physiological condition caused by excess or insufficient water. Leaves may curl but usually do not uncurl.

Control: Maintain consistent soil moisture levels.

Blossom-End Rot

Appears as a sunken, black, rotted area on the blossom end of fruit. This is caused by calcium deficiency and uneven watering.

Control: Maintain uniform moisture, avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, and correct soil calcium levels.

Growth Cracking

Occurs due to fluctuations in growth from water stress, heat, or rapid growth.

Control: Provide even watering and stable growing conditions.

LETTUCE & RADISH

Poor growth is common during hot weather, as these are cool-season crops.

Solution: Provide partial shade and use organic mulches to keep soil cooler and extend the growing season.

SPINACH & LETTUCE

Bolting

High temperatures cause these crops to bolt (go to seed) prematurely.

Solution: Plant early, provide shade, and choose bolt-resistant varieties.

POTATOES

Potato Fruit

Occasionally, potato flowers form small green fruits similar to tomatoes.

Important: Do NOT eat potato fruit—it contains toxic glycoalkaloids.

BROCCOLI & CAULIFLOWER

Bolting

High temperatures cause rapid bolting after head formation.

Tip: Harvest promptly and stagger planting dates for continuous harvest.

Ricey Cauliflower

Caused by high temperatures during curd development.

Prevention: Plant later-maturing varieties or time planting for cooler weather.

Blanching Cauliflower

Tie leaves loosely over the curd once visible to prevent yellowing from sunlight.

CORN

Removing corn suckers is not recommended, as it may damage roots and does not improve yield.

CUCUMBERS, SQUASH & CABBAGE

Blossom Drop

Early flowers are usually male and will not produce fruit. Extreme heat or stress can also cause flower drop.

Bitter Taste

Often caused by uneven watering, nutrient stress, or temperature extremes.

Solution: Maintain consistent watering and fertility.

READY TO GROW WITH CONFIDENCE?

Understanding common vegetable problems makes it easier to grow healthier, more productive gardens year after year.

Browse our full range of seeds, fertilizers, and garden supplies at T&T Seeds.

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