What is Eating My Young Tomato Plants

If you are a tomato gardener, you know the excitement that comes with planting your young tomato plants. You watch them grow and thrive, excited to eventually harvest juicy, ripe tomatoes. However, the excitement can quickly turn into disappointment when you notice that something is eating your young tomato plants. In this article, we will discuss the common culprits of tomato plant damage and how you can prevent them from destroying your crops.

Cutworms

Cutworms are a common pest that can eat young tomato plants. They are caterpillars that hide in the soil during the day and come out at night to feed. Cutworms can cut through the stem of a young tomato plant, causing it to wilt and die. To prevent cutworm damage, you can place a cardboard collar around each tomato plant. The collar will prevent the cutworms from reaching the stem of the plant.

Hornworms

Hornworms are another caterpillar that can cause damage to young tomato plants. They are large green worms that can devour an entire tomato plant in just a few days. To prevent hornworm damage, you can handpick them off your plants or use a natural insecticide, such as neem oil. Neem oil is a natural pesticide that will kill the hornworms without harming your plants.

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails are common pests that can destroy your young tomato plants. They feed on the leaves of the plant, causing large holes and damage. To prevent slug and snail damage, you can create a barrier around your plants. You can use copper tape, diatomaceous earth or eggshells to create a barrier that the slugs and snails will not cross. You can also remove any hiding spots, such as piles of leaves or debris, where they may be living.

Aphids

Aphids are tiny insects that can cause a lot of damage to young tomato plants. They suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to wilt and die. You can prevent aphid damage by introducing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to your garden. These insects will eat the aphids, preventing them from causing damage to your tomato plants.

Conclusion

Tomato plant pests can be frustrating, but with a little knowledge and prevention, you can protect your young tomato plants from damage. Identify the culprit of the damage and take action to prevent them from causing further damage. With a little effort, you'll be able to enjoy delicious, ripe tomatoes all season long!