Type: Physiological
Leaf Condition: Tip burn, Distorted, Marginal necrosis, Complete necrosis
Leaf Location: Entire leaf, Young, Mature
Fruit Size: Small
Fruit Texture: Hard
Roots: Stunted
Petioles Condition: Collapse
Plant Size: Stunted
Flower Condition: Distorted, Necrotic
Field Distribution: Uniform, High areas, Localized
Prior Environmental: Dry, High temperature
Season: Post transplant, Harvest, Post harvest

Problem

Abiotic disorder - drought Injury

Symptoms

During plant establishment plants may wilt followed by death. Established plants will wilt during the afternoon when water demand is not met. Older leaves may die prematurely. Sunscald, small fruit and poor pollination may be observed.

Additional Information

Nutrient disorders such as calcium deficiency may result with insufficient moisture.

Diagnostic Tips

Check soil moisture. You should be able compress the soil in your hand to form a round ball that will not fall apart if soil moisture is adequate.

Check irrigation system for proper function and design. Check ends of trickle tape for adequate pressure.

Corrective Measures

Apply irrigation as soon as possible. Irrigate prior to warm dry windy days. When designing irrigation system have feeder lines connected at the highest point to the trickle tape to minimize pressure drop. Insure pressure is correct for the tape used by installing pressure gauges at the end of the feeder line.

Management

Provide adequate moisture throughout season. Monitor soil moisture closely during plant establishment and periods of rapid plant growth and fruit development. More water must be provided during periods of low humidity with high winds and elevated temperatures.