Why is there black on my pepper plant?

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Blackening on pepper plants can be attributed to various factors, ranging from minor issues to more severe problems that can negatively impact the plant’s health.

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Several potential causes can lead to this phenomenon, ranging from harmless natural occurrences to more severe issues that can negatively impact your plant’s well-being.

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Natural coloration

Cream Section Separator Some peppers naturally have black or dark purple leaves or fruit. Other types have fruit that darkens at some point throughout the maturity process. If everything else about the plant seems healthy, it may not be cause for concern! Learn more

Blackening of pepper fruit can also result from sunscald. This occurs when the fruit is exposed to excessive sunlight, causing minor discoloration on the surface.

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Blossom end rot

Cream Section Separator If you notice the bottom of your pepper fruit turning black and becoming mushy, it could signify blossom end rot. This condition is typically caused by issues related to calcium uptake in the plant. It's also common in tomatoes. Learn more

When you observe blackening of the nodes/joints on your pepper plant, accompanied by other symptoms such as black, mushy fruit, yellowing, and wilted leaves, it may indicate the presence of Fusarium wilt.

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Blight

Cream Section Separator If you notice a black ring around the stem of your pepper plant, it may be a sign of Phytophthora blight. As the disease progresses, these lesions spread, causing the plant to wilt and turn yellow. Learn more

Diagnosing the issue is the first step towards healthy plants. Read the full article to learn common treatment and prevention methods for these common issues.

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