What's Eating My Tomato Plants?

Tomatoes are a popular crop for many gardeners, but they can be frustrating when pests start to invade. There are a variety of insects and animals that can munch on your beloved tomato plants, leaving you with less than stellar yields. Here are some common culprits and how to identify them:

Cutworms

One of the most common pests affecting tomato plants are cutworms. These are the larvae of moths that live in the soil and feed on the stems of young tomato plants, often cutting them down at the base. To identify cutworm damage, look for wilted or dead seedlings lying on the ground. To prevent cutworms, try using collars made from cardboard or plastic around the base of the plants when transplanting.

Aphids

Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cluster on tomato plants and cause stunted growth, curled leaves, and yellowing. They can also transmit diseases to your plants. To get rid of aphids, try blasting them off with a hose or using insecticidal soap. Ladybugs and lacewings also feed on aphids and can help control their population.

Tobacco Hornworms

Tobacco hornworms are large caterpillars that can strip a tomato plant of its leaves in no time. They are easily identified by their green color and white stripes, as well as the horn-like structures on their backs. To control tobacco hornworms, handpick them off the plants or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a bacteria that specifically targets caterpillars.

Crickets and Grasshoppers

Crickets and grasshoppers are known for their voracious appetites and can quickly consume large portions of your tomato plants. They can be identified by their distinctive hopping movements and chirping sounds. To deter crickets and grasshoppers, try using organic repellents like Neem oil or kaolin clay, or cover your plants with netting or mesh.

Squirrels

Squirrels are notorious for stealing ripe tomatoes right off the vine, leaving you with nothing but partially eaten fruits. You can try to protect your plants by using bird netting or individual fruit bags, or by planting a separate squirrel-proof garden away from your tomato plants.

Conclusion

There are many pests that can affect your tomato plants, but fortunately, there are also many ways to control and prevent them. By staying vigilant and taking action early, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of juicy, home-grown tomatoes. Happy gardening!