Mailbag: What's wrong with this tomato?

Hi Jessica!

I've had quite a few tomatoes that look like this, rotted along bottom. What could be causing this? Someone mentioned it might be related to having too much water. What do you think? Thanks for your expertise! -- Jackie, from Patchogue

That looks like a severe case of blossom end rot, Jackie. It's caused by a calcium deficiency. Did you add lime to the soil before planting? If not, try to get some in there now. Use dolomitic lime, as it contains magnesium, which aids calcium absorption. And be sure your plants receive even, consistent watering (too much followed by too little, or vice-versa, also could be to blame.) -- Jessica