How to Fix Sunburned Tomato Plants

Tomato plants are a popular choice for many gardeners around the world. Unfortunately, these plants are prone to sunburn, which can cause the leaves to wilt and turn yellow. Sunburned tomato plants are not only unsightly but can also affect their growth and production of fruit. However, there are steps you can take to fix sunburned tomato plants and get them back on track.

Reduce Sun Exposure

The first step to fix sunburned tomato plants is to reduce their exposure to the sun. You can achieve this by either moving the plants to a shadier location or providing some form of shade. One simple way to provide shade is to use a garden umbrella or a piece of cloth to cover the plants during the hottest part of the day. Alternatively, you can grow taller plants nearby that can offer shade to the tomato plants. This will help reduce the amount of direct sunlight that the plants receive, allowing them to recover from sunburn.

Water the Plants

Another important step to fix sunburned tomato plants is to ensure that they are getting enough water. Sunburned plants tend to dry out faster than healthy plants, so it is important to water them regularly. You can do this by watering the plants deeply once or twice a week or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. However, be careful not to overwater the plants, as this can cause root rot and other problems.

Fertilize the Plants

Fertilizing sunburned tomato plants can also help them recover. Choose a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, taking care not to get it on the leaves. Water the plant after applying the fertilizer to help it absorb the nutrients. This will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients to recover and produce new leaves and fruit.

Prune the Plants

If your tomato plants are severely sunburned, then you may need to prune them to help them recover. This involves removing any damaged or dead leaves or stems. Use a sharp pair of pruning shears to cut away the affected areas, making sure to sterilize the shears after each cut to prevent the spread of disease. Pruning your tomato plants will help redirect energy to healthier parts of the plant, allowing it to recover more quickly.

Conclusion

Sunburned tomato plants can be a common problem in the garden, but they can be fixed with a few simple steps. Reducing sun exposure, watering the plants regularly, fertilizing the plants, and pruning any damaged areas are all effective ways to help your tomato plants recover from sunburn. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your tomato plants remain healthy and productive throughout the growing season.