Poor drainage and aerationAdd organic matter or sand to the soil.
Plants stunted in growth; sickly, yellow colorNot enough soil nutrients or soil ph is abnormalUse fertilizer and correct pH according to a soil test. Use 2 to 3 pounds of complete fertilizer per 100 square feet in the absence of soil test.Plants growing in compacted, poorly drained soilModify soil with organic matter or coarse sandInsect or disease damageUse a regular spray or dust program.Iron deficiencyApply iron to soil or foliage.Plants stunted in growth; sickly, purplish colorLow temperaturePlant at the proper time. Don’t use light-colored mulch too early in the season.Low available phosphateApply sufficient phosphate at planting.Holes in leaves; leaves yellowish and dropping, or distorted in shapeInsect damageUse recommended insecticides at regular intervals.Plant leaves with spots; dead, dried areas; or powdery or rusty areasPlant diseaseUse resistant varieties; remove diseased plants and use a regular spray program.Plants wilt even though they have sufficient waterSoluble salts too high or root system damageHave soil tested. Use soil insecticides, fungicides and resistant varieties.Poor drainage and aerationAdd organic matter or sand to the soil.Insect or nematode damageUse recommended varieties and apply soil insecticides or nematicides.Plants tall, spindly and unproductiveExcessive shadeRelocate to a sunny area. Keep down weeds.Excessive nitrogenReduce applications of nitrogenBlossom drop (tomato)Hot, dry periodsUse mulch and water. Plant heat-tolerant varieties.Minor element deficienciesUse fertilizer containing zinc, iron and manganese.Failure to set fruit (vine crop)Poor pollinationAvoid spraying when bees are present.Leathery, dry, brown blemish on the blossom end of tomato, pepper and watermelonBlossom end rotKeep the soil moisture uniform. Avoid overwatering and excessive nitrogen.