Can You Buy Tomato Plants Treated for Blight?

If you are an avid tomato gardener, you know that blight can wreck a crop. As a result, many gardeners are interested in finding tomato plants that have been treated for blight to avoid disappointment. So, can you buy tomato plants treated for blight?

Understanding Blight in Tomatoes

Blight is a common disease that affects tomato plants. It is caused by fungal pathogens that attack the leaves, stem, and fruit of the tomato plant. Symptoms include leaf spots, leaf death, stem rot, and fruit rot. Blight can significantly reduce yields, making it a serious concern for tomato growers.

Preventing Blight in Tomato Plants

The best defense against blight is prevention. One way to prevent blight is to select tomato varieties that are resistant to the disease. Another way is to practice good gardening hygiene, such as removing infected plant material, keeping the garden free of weeds, and watering the plants at the base rather than overhead.

Blight-Resistant Tomato Varieties

Many tomato varieties have been developed specifically for their resistance to blight. These include 'Defiant', 'Mountain Magic', 'Iron Lady', 'Jasper', 'Juliet', and 'Lizzano', among others. While these varieties are not immune to blight, they have been bred to resist the disease and offer a higher likelihood of a successful harvest.

Tomato Plants Treated for Blight

While there is no definitive treatment for blight, some companies offer tomato plants that have been treated for the disease. These plants are often treated with fungicides and other chemicals that prevent or lessen the effects of blight. However, it is important to note that these treatments are not 100% effective, and the plants may still succumb to the disease.

Should You Buy Tomato Plants Treated for Blight?

If you are concerned about blight in your tomato garden, it may seem like buying treated plants is the best option. However, it is important to consider the potential risks and drawbacks of these plants. For example, the chemicals used to treat the plants may be harmful to your health or the environment. Additionally, the plant may still succumb to blight, despite the treatment.

The Bottom Line

While it is tempting to search for a quick fix to blight in tomato plants, the best approach is prevention. Choose blight-resistant varieties, practice good gardening hygiene, and monitor your plants closely for signs of disease. While there are tomato plants that have been treated for blight, it is important to weigh the potential risks before making a purchase.