Why Are There Bumps on My Tomato Plants?

Tomatoes are a popular vegetable to grow in home gardens, but sometimes unexpected bumps can appear on the plants. These bumps can be concerning to gardeners, causing them to wonder what is causing them and whether they should be worried about the health of their plants. In this article, we will explore the reasons why there may be bumps on your tomato plants and what you can do about them.

Bacterial Canker

One common cause of bumps on tomato plants is bacterial canker. Bacterial canker is a disease that affects the plant stem and fruit, causing dark brown or black lesions to form. These lesions can appear like bumps on the surface of the fruit, creating an uneven texture. Bacterial canker is caused by the bacteria Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis and is spread through infected seeds, tools, and soil. Unfortunately, there is no cure for bacterial canker, so it is essential to remove the infected plants and practice good garden hygiene to prevent the spread of the bacteria to healthy plants.

Irregular Watering

Irregular watering can also cause bumps to appear on tomato plants. If tomato plants receive too little or too much water, they can develop blossom end rot, a condition that causes the tomato fruit to develop a sunken, brownish-black lesion at the bottom. This lesion can cause the fruit to appear bumpy, creating an unwanted texture. To prevent blossom end rot and keep your tomatoes healthy, make sure to water them consistently and deeply. Watering once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions, should be sufficient.

Insect Damage

Insects can also cause bumps to appear on tomato plants. The tomato fruitworm is a common pest that attacks tomato plants, laying eggs on the fruit and causing damage to its surface. As the larvae feed on the fruit, it can cause it to become misshapen, producing bumps on its surface. To prevent insect damage, you can use insecticides, plant companion plants that repel pests, and practice good garden hygiene by removing any fallen fruit or vegetables.

Genetic Abnormalities

Sometimes bumps can appear on tomato plants due to genetic abnormalities. These bumps can appear as uneven or misshapen parts of the plant, such as on the stem or fruit. While these abnormalities do not necessarily hurt the plant's health, they can sometimes affect its growth and development. To prevent genetic abnormalities from affecting your tomato plants, choose heirloom or hybrid varieties that are known for their hardiness and resistance to disease.

In Conclusion

Bumps on tomato plants can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial canker, irregular watering, insect damage, and genetic abnormalities. It is essential to identify the cause of the bumps to prevent them from spreading and affecting the overall health of your tomato plants. By practicing good garden hygiene and using preventative measures, you can ensure that your tomato plants produce healthy and delicious fruit.