What Are These Bugs on My Tomato Plants?

If you've ever grown tomato plants, you're likely familiar with the struggle of dealing with pests. Bugs can quickly infest your plants and wreak havoc on your harvest. Identifying the type of bugs on your tomato plants is the first step in determining the best course of action to eliminate them. In this article, we'll go over the most common bugs you may find on your tomato plants and how to get rid of them.

Aphids

Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped bugs that can be green, yellow, or black. They are commonly found on the underside of leaves and suck the sap from the plant while excreting a sticky substance known as honeydew. This honeydew can attract ants and other bugs, making the problem worse. To get rid of aphids, you can spray your tomato plants with a mixture of water and dish soap or use an insecticide specifically designed for aphids.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are nearly microscopic and can be difficult to spot until you notice their web-like webs on the leaves. They suck the plant's sap and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To get rid of spider mites, you can blast your plants with a strong jet of water or use a miticide.

Whiteflies

Whiteflies are small, white flying bugs that are commonly found on the underside of leaves. They suck the sap from the plant and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They also excrete honeydew, which can lead to fungal growth. To get rid of whiteflies, you can use sticky traps or insecticides designed for whiteflies.

Cutworms

Cutworms are fat, gray or brown caterpillars that curl up when threatened. They typically feed on the stems of young plants, cutting them down at the base. To prevent cutworms, you can wrap the base of your plants with cardboard or aluminum foil. You can also use an insecticide specifically designed for cutworms.

Hornworms

Hornworms are large, green caterpillars with a distinct horn-like protrusion on their rear. They feed on the leaves and stems of tomato plants and can quickly defoliate a plant. To get rid of hornworms, you can pick them off by hand or use an insecticide designed for hornworms.

Conclusion

Dealing with bugs on your tomato plants can be frustrating, but it's important to quickly identify the type of pest you're dealing with so you can take the appropriate action. Whether it's using natural remedies or insecticides, there are many ways to eliminate these pests and ensure a healthy, bountiful tomato harvest.