What is Eating My Baby Tomato Plants?

As a tomato plant parent, nothing is more frustrating than finding your precious babies being devoured by pests. But what could be chewing on your tomato plants? Let's explore some of the common culprits.

Cutworms

One of the most common pests that love to feast on young tomato plants is a cutworm. These small larvae love to burrow into the soil around your plants and chew through the stem, causing your baby plants to wilt and die off. To prevent cutworms from attacking your plants, try placing cardboard collars around the stems, making it difficult for the worms to reach them.

Aphids

Aphids are another common tomato pest that can wreak havoc on your plants. These small insects love to attach themselves to the stems and leaves of your plants and suck the sap out of them, causing deformation and discoloration. You can try blasting them off with a strong spray of water or spraying your plants with a mixture of water and soap.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are another stealthy pest that can cause damage to your tomato plants. These tiny arachnids are often hard to spot, but you may notice a fine webbing covering your plants if they are present. They love to suck the sap out of leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually die off. You can try using a miticide spray specifically formulated for spider mites to combat the issue.

Hornworms

If you notice large chunks or entire leaves being consumed, you may have a hornworm problem. These large caterpillars can quickly strip your plants of their leaves, leaving them vulnerable to disease and further pest attacks. Handpicking the worms or using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can help control the problem.

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails are often the culprits behind holes appearing in your plant's leaves. These slimy pests love moisture and will come out at night to feast on your tender plants. You can try placing copper tape around your plants or using a slug/snail bait to keep them at bay.

Conclusion

As frustrating as it may be to deal with pests in your garden, it's an inevitable part of growing plants. By identifying the culprit and taking action, you can protect your baby plants and ensure a bountiful harvest of juicy, delicious tomatoes.