Identifying Common Tomato Problems and How To Fix Them

Tomato plant problems can appear quickly and be hard to diagnose. Leaves may curl, turn yellow, twist or become spotted, and fruit can become damaged. While the symptoms may look alarming, most tomato problems stem from a few common causes: nutrition, environmental stress, pests, diseases or herbicide exposure, according to Joe Masabni, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert.

Masabni says identifying the cause early helps to protect plant and fruit health.

Yellowing Leaves

Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Side dress plants with fertilizer every three to four weeks to meet their nutrient demands.

Masabni notes common nutrient issues include:

• Nitrogen deficiency causes older leaves to turn yellow and die
• Iron deficiency causes yellowing in younger leaves
• Magnesium deficiency often appears as speckled or spotted yellowing on older leaves

How to Prevent or Cure Nutrient Deficiencies

Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer and monitor soil moisture. Inconsistent watering can worsen these issues by limiting the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients. A simple finger test — checking moisture a few inches below the surface — can help guide watering decisions.

Leaf Curling

Leaf curling is often caused by environmental stress, not disease. While curling leaves may not cause permanent damage, Masabni says prolonged stress can reduce fruit production.

Leaf curling is commonly caused by:

• High temperatures
• Irregular watering
• Wind or physical stress

How to Reduce Environmental Stress Effects

Water consistently and apply mulch to regulate soil temperature. Also, avoid overreacting to temporary plant stress during extreme weather.

For more, continue reading at agrilifetoday.tamu.edu.