Why Does My Tomato Plant Look Like It Has Pimples?

Have you noticed small bumps or growths on the leaves or stems of your tomato plants? These growths may look like pimples, but they are actually a sign that your tomato plant is experiencing a condition called russeting.

What is Russeting?

Russeting is a plant disorder that causes the skin of the fruit, leaves, and stems to develop a rough, scaly texture with small bumps or pimples. The bumps are actually small outgrowths of cells on the plant's surface.

Russeted tomatoes are safe to eat, but they may have a less attractive appearance than non-russeted tomatoes. This condition may also cause the fruit to be more susceptible to diseases and insects, so it’s important to try and prevent russeting from occurring.

Causes of Russeting in Tomato Plants

There are several factors that can cause russeting in tomato plants, including:

Hot and dry weather conditions

Excessive use of fertilizers

Exposure to chemicals or pesticides

Stress from transplanting, drought, or injury

Insect damage, particularly from mites, thrips, or whiteflies

Poor soil conditions

Preventing Russeting in Tomato Plants

To prevent russeting from occurring in your tomato plants, it’s essential to provide them with the right growing conditions. This includes:

Adequate watering to prevent drought stress

Avoiding overuse of fertilizers and chemicals

Daily inspection of your plants for insect damage

Proper soil preparation and adequate soil drainage

Covering your plants with shade cloth during hot weather

Selecting tomato varieties that are less susceptible to russeting

By following these tips, you can help prevent russeting from developing on your tomato plants and keep them healthy and beautiful.

Treating Russeting in Tomato Plants

If you notice russeting on your tomato plants, it’s important to take action right away before the condition worsens. Treatment options include:

Pruning affected leaves and stems to improve air circulation

Applying a foliar spray or insecticide to kill mites, thrips, or whiteflies

Providing shade to reduce heat stress

Using a fertilizer with a balanced ratio of nutrients

It’s important to note that treatment options may not always be effective, especially if russeting is caused by chronic stress or poor growing conditions. In severe cases, it may be necessary to remove the plant entirely to prevent the spread of the condition to other plants.

Conclusion

Russeting in tomato plants can be unsightly and may cause the fruit to be more vulnerable to disease and insect damage. Fortunately, with proper growing conditions, you can prevent this condition from developing and keep your plants healthy and beautiful. If you notice russeting on your tomato plants, take action right away to treat the condition and prevent it from spreading.