Does Herbicide Drift Affect New Growth on Tomato Plants?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular crops grown in home gardens and on commercial farms, but like any other plant, they are susceptible to damage from herbicides. Herbicides are chemicals used to kill or control unwanted weeds and plants in crop fields, gardens, and lawns, but if they are not applied properly, they can drift and affect other plants nearby, including tomatoes. In this article, we will discuss whether herbicide drift affects new growth on tomato plants and what can be done to prevent it.

What is Herbicide Drift?

Herbicide drift occurs when herbicide spray or vapor moves away from the intended target area and lands on other plants. This can happen due to various factors such as wind, weather conditions, and equipment calibration. When herbicide drifts, it can cause damage to non-target plants, including tomato plants, depending on the type and dose of herbicide used and the sensitivity of the plant species.

How Does Herbicide Drift Affect Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants are sensitive to certain herbicides like glyphosate, which is commonly used in weed control. Glyphosate can cause chlorosis (yellowing) and necrosis (death) of the leaves and shoots of tomato plants, leading to stunted growth and reduced yield. Other herbicides like 2,4-D and dicamba can also cause similar symptoms on tomato plants, depending on the dose and exposure time. Additionally, herbicide drift can affect tomato plants at different growth stages, from seedlings to mature plants, and can have long-term effects on the soil and organic matter.

How to Prevent Herbicide Drift Affecting Tomato Plants?

Preventing herbicide drift is essential to protect tomato plants and other crops from damage. Here are some ways to reduce the risk of herbicide drift:

Choose herbicides that are labeled for use on tomatoes and follow the label instructions carefully.

Apply herbicides when there is no wind or when wind speeds are low, usually between 3-10 mph.

Avoid spraying herbicides during temperature inversions, which occur when the air near the ground is cooler than the air higher up, and can cause spray droplets to remain suspended and drift farther away.

Use drift-reducing nozzles and equipment that can control the spray drift and avoid overlap between the spray patterns.

Create buffer zones around tomato plants by leaving a gap of at least 10-20 feet between the treated area and the tomato plants. This can reduce the exposure of tomato plants to herbicide drift.

Conclusion

In conclusion, herbicide drift can affect new growth on tomato plants if not managed properly. The best way to prevent herbicide drift is to follow label instructions, apply herbicides during appropriate weather conditions, use drift-reducing equipment, and create buffer zones around tomato plants. By doing so, gardeners and farmers can protect their tomato plants and other crops from herbicide damage and ensure a healthy and bountiful harvest.