What Happens to Tomato Plants with Sunburn

Tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious addition to any garden, but they are also particularly susceptible to sunburn. Sunburn on tomato plants can lead to a number of problems, including decreased yield and lower quality crops. In this article, we will explore what happens to tomato plants that have been sunburned and provide tips on how to prevent sunburn from occurring in the first place.

What is Sunburn on Tomato Plants?

Sunburn on tomato plants occurs when the leaves, stems, and fruit of the plant are exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time. This exposure can cause the plant to become bleached, yellowed, and even scorched. In some instances, the leaves may curl and the fruit may crack or develop sunken spots. These symptoms may be accompanied by stunted growth, decreased yield, and increased susceptibility to disease and pests.

Causes of Sunburn on Tomato Plants

There are a number of factors that can contribute to sunburn on tomato plants, including:

Lack of shading or protection

High temperatures

Low humidity

Excessive nitrogen fertilization

Water stress

Tomato plants that are grown in areas with intense sunlight or hot climates are particularly susceptible to sunburn. Similarly, plants that are not given adequate shading or protection from the sun are more likely to suffer from sunburn. Additionally, plants that are over-fertilized with nitrogen or subjected to long periods of water stress may be less able to resist the damaging effects of sunlight.

Preventing Sunburn on Tomato Plants

The best way to prevent sunburn on tomato plants is to provide adequate shading and protection from the sun. This can be accomplished by using shade cloth, row covers, or other forms of light filtering barriers. Additionally, healthy soil with ample nutrients and moisture can help to increase the plant's tolerance to sunlight. Pruning the plant also helps as it ensures that the fruit is not shaded by leaves and other plant matter. Lastly, choosing tomato plant varieties that are well-suited to your climate and sun exposure is also important. If hot and dry conditions are common in your area, you should select varieties that are more tolerant to high temperatures and have thicker stems that can withstand stronger winds and sun.

How to Treat Sunburned Tomato Plants

If you notice that your tomato plants are starting to show signs of sunburn, it is important to take action sooner rather than later. Depending on the severity of the sunburn, you may need to remove damaged leaves, stems, and fruit to prevent the spread of disease and pests. Regularly watering the plant will also help keep it healthy and promote new growth. Finally, make sure that the plant is not over-fertilized, as this can cause further damage to the sunburned areas. If you are unsure about how to best care for sunburned tomato plants, consult a professional for advice and recommendations.

In Conclusion

Sunburn on tomato plants can be a serious problem for gardeners, but with proper care and attention, it can be prevented and treated. Remember to provide adequate shading and protection, choose the right tomato plant varieties, and maintain proper soil, fertilizer, and watering practices. By doing so, you can ensure healthy, high-yielding tomato plants for years to come.