What Eats the Top of Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants are a popular choice for gardeners because they are easy to grow and produce delicious fruits. However, sometimes your tomato plants may develop problems, and one of the most common issues is when something starts eating the top of your plants. If you have noticed that your tomato plants are looking unhealthy and the tops of the plants are being eaten, here are some possible causes and ways to prevent further damage.

Cutworms

Cutworms are a common pest that can cause damage to the top of tomato plants. These larvae of different species of moths feed on the stem of the plant, cutting through it at ground level. This damage can result in the death of the plant or the top part of it. To prevent cutworms from eating your tomato plants, you can use a physical barrier, such as a collar made of cardboard or toilet paper. Another option is to use a biological control, such as parasitic nematodes or entomopathogenic fungi.

Aphids

Aphids are tiny insects that can also cause problems to the top of tomato plants. They feed on the sap of the plant and can eventually weaken and kill it. These pests are usually found on the underside of the leaves, but they can also be found on the stem of the plant, especially near the top. To prevent aphids from eating your tomato plants, you can use natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings. Another option is to spray the plant with a mild soap solution or neem oil.

Tobacco Hornworms

Tobacco hornworms are the larvae of the Carolina Sphinx moth and are a common pest of tomato plants. They are green and have a horn-like protrusion on their back. These pests devour the leaves of the plants, but they can also eat the top of the plant, which can lead to stunted growth and a reduction in fruit production. To prevent tobacco hornworms from eating your tomato plants, you can try handpicking the worms off the plant. Another option is to use Bacillus thuringiensis, a bacterial insecticide that kills the pests.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are several pests that can eat the top of tomato plants, but there are also several methods to prevent and control them. If you notice any damage to your tomato plants, it's important to act quickly to prevent further damage and maintain the health of the plant.