PRO TIPS - TOMATO TROUBLESHOOTING

If you experienced issues with your tomatoes last season, or are currently facing challenges, this guide will help you identify and address the most common tomato plant problems. Early detection and proper care can make the difference between a disappointing harvest and a thriving crop.

1. BLOSSOM END ROT

Symptoms: Brown, leathery patches appear on the bottom of the tomato (opposite the stem). Spots may range from dime- to quarter-sized.

Solution: Remove and dispose of affected fruit immediately. To prevent future occurrences, apply a calcium-supporting product such as Talk of Tomatoes (item #3280) when transplanting.

2. BLIGHT

Symptoms:

• Early Blight: Black or gray spots on young leaves
• Southern Blight: Spots forming near stems and roots
• Late Blight: Rapid spread of dark spots across leaves, vines, and fruit

Solution: Remove infected plant parts early. In advanced cases, apply an anti-fungal treatment such as Natria Fungicide.

3. CATERPILLARS

Symptoms: Chewed leaves and damaged fruit caused by feeding caterpillars.

Solution: Use BTK Organic Insecticide (item #3372). Plant French marigolds nearby to naturally deter caterpillars.

4. FRUIT SPLITTING

Symptoms: Cracking or splitting of tomatoes, often after heavy rain following a dry period.

Solution:

• Early Growth: Maintain consistent watering and nutrient levels
• Near Harvest: Splitting cannot be reversed

While split tomatoes are still edible, their appearance may be affected.

5. RED SPIDER MITES

Symptoms: Fine webbing on plants and stippled leaves. Mites are often found under leaves.

Solution: Apply insecticidal soap or onion and garlic spray. Companion planting with coriander, dill, or chrysanthemums can help repel mites naturally.

6. WILT

Symptoms: Yellowing and drying of lower leaves, followed by daytime wilting. Plants may recover overnight, then wilt again the next day.

Solution: Unfortunately, there is no cure. Rotate crops next season, start seedlings in clean soil, and keep weeds under control to reduce risk.

7. SUN SCORCH

Symptoms: Bruised, sunken spots on fruit during hot, dry periods.

Solution: Avoid pruning leaves during heatwaves. Use shade cloth to protect fruit. Once scorched, fruit cannot recover, but healthy fruit can be protected.

READY TO START GROWING?

Browse our selection of high-quality tomato seeds and plant care products to give your garden the best possible start.

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