From: songbird@anthive.com   
      
   T wrote:   
   > Hi All,   
   >   
   > I am getting blossom rot on few of my peppers.  My   
   > research says that this is due to a lack of calcium   
   > in my soil.   
   >   
   > I have seen recommendations to grinding up a TUMS, but   
   > my soil is already alkaline.   
   >   
   > What would you guys use to add calcium to alkaline soil?   
   > Calcium citrate from the vitamin store is too expensive.   
      
     often it is called a lack of calcium, but what it may   
   also indicate is uneven watering or the lack of a decent   
   root system to support the plant and the development of   
   fruits.   
      
     also when you have very alkaline soils you should be   
   aiming to get the pH back towards neutral.  adding calcium   
   will not do that.  adding gypsum will not change pH.   
      
     adding organic matter and improving the garden soil in   
   a big enough area to support the plant and then making sure   
   it gets enough water is helpful.   
      
     making sure there is a wind block, mulch to prevent   
   water loss.   
      
     also perhaps there are peppers which will do better   
   in your climate, so research selections for your area   
   and soil type and see if there are any alternatives.   
      
     these are things i would work on.   
      
      
     songbird   
      
     songbird   
      
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