Defoliation may cause the fruit to become sun scalded. The fruit is usually affected at the stem end. One or more firm, depressed rot spots appear on either the green or ripe fruit. Target spots on the leaves are very characteristic. Use disease-free seed and transplants.
Resistant varieties are available.
Avoid planting near potatoes or other tomatoes. Avoid injury to the plant, especially during transplanting. Long crop rotations are important. High soil fertility reduces the severity of this disease, as does maintaining plant vigor. Limit leaf wetness by watering early in the day and by watering at the base of the plant.