What to do if your tomato plants have blight

Tomatoes are a popular crop for gardeners, but they are susceptible to a variety of diseases, including blight. Blight is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and wilting of leaves, and eventually, the death of the plant. If your tomato plants have blight, it is important to act quickly to prevent the spread of the disease.

Identifying blight

The first step in dealing with blight is to identify it. Blight can be caused by several different fungi, but the symptoms are similar. Look for yellowing and wilting of leaves, as well as dark spots or lesions on the stems and fruit. As the disease progresses, the leaves may turn brown and the fruit may rot.

Removing infected plants

If you have identified blight on your tomato plants, the next step is to remove the infected plants. This will prevent the disease from spreading to other plants. Make sure to remove the entire plant, including the roots, and dispose of it in the trash. Do not compost infected plants, as the spores can survive and infect other plants.

Cleaning up the area

After removing infected plants, it is important to clean up the area to prevent the spread of the disease. Remove any fallen leaves or fruit from the ground, as well as any plant debris. Disinfect any tools or equipment that came in contact with infected plants using a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water.

Avoiding blight in the future

While blight can be difficult to prevent, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of infection. Choose varieties of tomatoes that are resistant to blight, such as 'San Marzano' or 'Mountain Magic'. Mulch around your plants to prevent spores from splashing up onto the leaves during rain or irrigation. Water your plants at the base, rather than from overhead, to prevent water from sitting on the leaves.

In conclusion, blight is a serious disease that can quickly kill tomato plants. If you have identified blight on your tomato plants, it is important to act quickly to prevent the spread of the disease. Remove infected plants, clean up the area, and take steps to avoid blight in the future. With these steps, you can enjoy a healthy crop of tomatoes.