Tomato traumas

Q What caused black patches and splitting in tomato fruits? HENRY AND CLARE, DONCASTER

A These two problems are the result of inconsistent watering. The dark patches are blossom end rot, caused by a lack of calcium reaching the fruits, which is transported through the plant when you water. Fruits also split when plants dry out and then receive an influx of water, which causes the inside of the fruit to grow faster than the outer skin.

Q How should I care for blueberry plants that shrivelled in the heat? ANNETTE NEWMAN, BY EMAIL

A Your plants look very sorry for themselves. I suspect that they suffered from irregular watering, which allowed them to dry out, which caused the leaves to turn red early in the season while fruits were still on the plant. And finally, this year’s temperatures might have been too much for them.

Start by pruning off any dead stems and remove shrivelled berries before they rot. Repot the plants in fresh ericaceous compost and next year give a monthly liquid feed April–Sept and water regularlywith rainwater. But if you run out of rainwater, tap water is better than no water all all - they are thirsty plants. Move the pots to a shadier spot at the height of the day in peak emperatures.

Q Is broccoli with spots on head safe to eat? DEBORAH KELLY, VIA WEBSITE

A Black or brown spots on your calabrese head is likely to be a sign that it’s starting to rot. It should still be safe to eat, provided you cut out the affected areas. Remember that, once you cut the main head, plants will produce numerous smaller heads, which probably won’t be affected.

Q Could the sap from the fig tree I’m pruning be an irritant? I’m careful to avoid euphorbia sap. DAVE JONES, BY EMAIL

A Sticky fig sap can be an irritant, so be careful to avoid getting any on sensitive skin. However, it is not likely to be as irritant as euphorbia sap. Make sure you wear gloves and keep your arms covered and clean your pruners, once the job is done.