Introduction

Tomatoes are a delicious and versatile vegetable that are enjoyed by millions of people all around the world. Unfortunately, there are several different types of blight that can affect tomato plants, which can be devastating for farmers and home gardeners alike. In this article, we will take a closer look at which blight kills tomato plants, and what you can do to prevent it from happening.

Early Blight

Early blight is a common fungal disease that affects tomato plants. It usually starts with brown spots on the lower leaves of the plant, which eventually turn yellow and then black. If left untreated, it can spread to the rest of the plant and cause the foliage to wither and die. Early blight is caused by the fungus Alternaria solani, which thrives in warm, humid conditions.

To prevent early blight, it is important to keep the plant as dry as possible. Avoid watering from above, and make sure the soil is well-drained. You can also apply a fungicide to the plants as a preventative measure.

Late Blight

Late blight is another fungal disease that can affect tomato plants. It is caused by the fungus Phytophthora infestans, which thrives in cool, wet conditions. Late blight usually starts with small, dark spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown and spread to the rest of the plant. The fruit can also be affected, becoming discolored and developing a leathery texture.

To prevent late blight, it is important to keep the plant as dry as possible. Avoid watering from above, and make sure the soil is well-drained. You can also apply a fungicide to the plants as a preventative measure.

Bacterial Spot

Bacterial spot is a bacterial disease that can affect tomato plants. It usually starts with small, water-soaked spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown and form a bullseye pattern. If left untreated, it can cause the fruit to become deformed and inedible. Bacterial spot is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris.

To prevent bacterial spot, it is important to keep the plant as dry as possible. Avoid watering from above, and make sure the soil is well-drained. You can also apply a copper-based fungicide to the plants as a preventative measure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several different types of blight that can affect tomato plants, including early blight, late blight, and bacterial spot. Each of these diseases can be devastating to the health and productivity of the plant, but with the right preventative measures, they can be easily avoided. Keep the plant as dry as possible, avoid watering from above, and use a fungicide as a preventative measure. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your tomato plants remain healthy and productive all season long.