What is Eating My Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants are a popular choice for gardeners because they are relatively easy to grow and yield a bountiful harvest. However, these plants are also susceptible to pests that can damage or kill them. If you're noticing significant damage to your tomato plants, it's essential to identify the culprit so that you can take steps to prevent further damage. Here are some common pests that may be eating your tomato plants:

Cutworms

Cutworms are caterpillars that live in the soil and come out at night to feed on the base of the plant stems. They can cut through the stem, causing the plant to fall over and die. To prevent cutworms from attacking your tomato plants, wrap a collar made of cardboard or aluminum foil around the base of each plant, burying it a few inches deep into the soil.

Aphids

Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the tomato plants' leaves and stems. They can quickly reproduce and infest your entire garden if not controlled. To keep aphids at bay, spray your tomato plants with a mixture of water and dish soap, or use an insecticidal soap.

Tomato Hornworms

Tomato hornworms are large, green caterpillars with distinctive white markings that feed on the leaves and fruit of tomato plants. They can quickly strip a plant of its foliage, leaving it unable to produce a healthy harvest. To get rid of hornworms, handpick them off your plants, or use a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails are common garden pests that can also damage tomato plants. They feed on the leaves and fruit, leaving small holes and slime trails behind. To deter these pests, use a slug and snail bait or set up a beer trap.

Conclusion

Your tomato plants are vulnerable to a variety of pests that can damage or kill them. By identifying the culprit, you can take steps to prevent further damage and protect your harvest. Use these tips to keep your tomato plants healthy and thriving throughout the growing season.