What to Use on Tomato Plants for Insects

Tomato plants are a staple of many gardens, producing juicy and delicious fruits for salads, sauces, and more. However, they are also a prime target for various insect pests that can cause damage and reduce yields. Here are some options for controlling insects on tomato plants:

Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a product made from natural oils and fatty acids that disrupt the cell membranes of soft-bodied insect pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. It is safe to use on edible plants and has no residual effect or harm to beneficial insects. To apply, mix the soap with water as directed and spray it onto the tomato plants, covering both the topsides and undersides of the leaves, until dripping.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is a botanical insecticide made from the seeds and fruits of the neem tree, which contains compounds that interfere with the feeding, growth, and reproduction of a broad range of insect pests. It is non-toxic to humans, animals, and most beneficial insects, but it may harm bees, so avoid applying it during the daytime when bees are active. To use, mix the neem oil with water and a few drops of dish soap and spray it on the tomato plants, especially on the young growth and flower buds.

Bacillus Thuringiensis

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a naturally occurring soil bacterium that produces proteins toxic to certain insect larvae, such as tomato hornworms and cutworms. It is safe for humans, pets, and beneficial insects, but it must be ingested by the target insect to be effective, so it requires thorough coverage of the foliage and soil. To apply, mix the Bt powder or liquid with water as directed and spray it on the tomato plants, especially on the leaves and stems.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from the fossilized shells of aquatic organisms called diatoms, which have sharp edges that can slice through the exoskeletons of many insects and dehydrate them. It is non-toxic to humans and animals but can irritate the lungs and eyes, so use a dust mask and goggles when applying it. To use, dust the diatomaceous earth on the tomato plants, especially on the lower leaves, stem, and soil.

Companion Plants

Companion planting is the practice of growing certain plants together to enhance their growth, flavor, or pest control. Some plants that are beneficial to tomato plants by repelling or distracting insects include marigolds, nasturtiums, basil, garlic, and mint. Interplant these companion plants around or among the tomato plants to create a diverse and balanced garden ecosystem.

Cultural Practices

Cultural practices are the actions that gardeners can take to prevent or minimize insect infestations without using chemicals. Some cultural practices that are helpful for tomato plants include:

Rotating the tomato plants every year to avoid soil-borne diseases and pests;

Cleaning up the garden debris and fallen fruits regularly to reduce the hiding places and food sources for insects;

Watering the tomato plants at the base or through drip irrigation to avoid wetting the leaves and promoting fungal diseases and insect attacks;

Using reflective mulches or fabric covers to repel or confuse some insects, such as whiteflies and aphids;

Using netting, screens, or bird feeders to protect the tomato fruits from birds, squirrels, and other larger animals.

By combining these insect control methods and adapting to the specific conditions and pests in your garden, you can grow healthy and bountiful tomato plants that are free from insect damage.