This will alleviate problems resulting from the interface between these two soils and permit roots to spread properly. The interface between two soils is a physical barrier affecting the direction and rate of water movement, nutrient and oxygen flow in the soil, and root development. Hoeing or cultivating closer than one foot to the plant will damage or sever roots. This reduces water and nutrient uptake increasing problems with blossom-end rot. Mulching with an organic material helps prevent extreme soil moisture fluctuations and also helps keep the soil cool during hot summer months.
Roots require specific soil temperatures to continue growth.
As temperatures increase in the summer, root growth is reduced resulting in reduced water and calcium uptake. The use of plastic mulch has been shown to increase blossom-end rot problems. This may be due to reduced water penetration into the soil, reduced soil oxygen levels or high soil temperatures. Dry soil and hot, dry, windy days create a water and calcium deficiency in the plant. Even a brief soil water deficit can disrupt water and nutrient flow in the plant.