What Is Eating My Tomato Plant Stems

Tomatoes are a favorite fruit to grow in many gardens. They are easy to care for and can produce a bountiful harvest. However, one common problem that many gardeners face is the mysterious disappearance of their tomato plant stems. If your tomato plant stems are being eaten, there are several possible culprits.

Tomato Hornworms

The most likely culprit for eating your tomato plant stems is the tomato hornworm. These large, green caterpillars can consume entire tomato plant leaves and stems in just a few days. If you see black droppings on your tomato leaves, it is a sign that you have tomato hornworms. To get rid of these pests, simply pick them off your plants and dispose of them. Alternatively, you can spray your tomato plants with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to kill the larvae.

Cutworms

Cutworms are another common pest that can eat your tomato plant stems. They are brown or black caterpillars that live in the soil and come out at night to feed. To prevent cutworms from eating your tomato stems, place a collar around the base of each plant. The collar should be made of cardboard or plastic and be about two inches high. This will prevent the cutworms from reaching your tomato plants.

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails are notorious for eating leaves and stems of plants. They usually come out at night and leave a trail of slime behind. To get rid of slugs and snails, pick them off your plants by hand or set up beer traps. Place a shallow dish of beer near your tomato plants, and the slugs and snails will crawl in and drown.

Mice and Rats

If you see small bite marks on your tomato plant stems, it is a sign that you have mice or rats in your garden. These rodents can cause significant damage to your tomato plants. To keep mice and rats away, make sure to clean up any fallen fruits or vegetables, as they can attract these pests. You can also set up traps or use natural repellents, such as peppermint or garlic spray.

Conclusion

If your tomato plant stems are being eaten, it is important to identify the culprit and take action to protect your plants. By using the tips above, you can prevent tomato hornworms, cutworms, slugs, snails, mice, and rats from destroying your tomato plants. With a little bit of patience and persistence, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of juicy, delicious tomatoes.