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Controlling Tomato Problems
It takes skill and ingenuity to raise blemish-free flavorful tomatoes
and protect them from insects, diseases and other pests. Here's
how to handle existing problems and prevent new ones.
Controlling Blossom-End Rot
This is a common problem, so we'll deal with it first. The first
sign is a water-soaked spot near the blossom end of the fruit. This
spot becomes brown or black and may enlarge until it covers a third
to half of the fruit. As the spot grows, the tissues shrink and
the surface becomes dark, leathery and often sunken.
Sometimes, blossom-end rot occurs when tomato plants have grown
rapidly during the early part of the season and then are subjected
to prolonged dry weather as the tomato fruits are developing. Other
times, the damage occurs after long periods of extra rainfall. Research
also indicates that extreme fluctuations in soil moisture and excessive
applications of high nitrogen fertilizer aggravate this disorder.
The basic cause of blossom-end rot is a lack of calcium, so ensure
an ample supply. Test
your garden's soil pH before planting. If it's less than 6.8,
spread ground lime before setting out the tomato transplants. Some
gardeners even mix a handful of lime
in the hole at planting time.
Water regularly so tomato plants receive a uniform supply of moisture.
Keep the soil evenly moist but not extremely wet. Spread a 2 inch
blanket of mulch over the roots to conserve moisture. Use grass
clippings, compost or weed-free straw, replenishing as needed.
If blossom-end rot is already occurring, mix one tablespoon of
calcium chloride per gallon of water and spray the foliage two or
three times a week as the tomatoes are developing. Do not spray
for the entire season, as it may injure the foliage.
Other Common Tomato Problems
Cracking – Tomatoes often crack after
rainy periods and high temperatures that favor rapid growth. They
are most likely to crack when they have reached full size and are
turning color. Cracks blemish the fruit and often create points
of infection.
The best way to avoid cracking is to plant resistant varieties
such as Early Girl, Jet Star, Roma, Pilgrim and Heinz 1370. Also
water regularly to keep soil moisture uniform throughout the growing
season.
Blossom Drop – Tomato plants often
develop beautiful blossoms that mysteriously fall off. This problem
is often temperature-related. Some varieties may drop their blossoms
when night temperatures fall below 55° while high day temperatures
above 90° and night temperatures above 75° may also cause
blossom drop. To prevent it, plant resistant varieties, keep the
soil evenly moist and avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers during
the early stages of plant growth. Also watch for signs of early
blight or bacterial spot that may cause blossom loss.
Sunscald – Tomatoes get sunburn just
like people. At first, a yellowish-white patch appears on the side
of the tomato facing the sun. The damaged area gets larger and becomes
grayish-white as the tomato ripens.
Prevent sunscald by training tomatoes in cages where the leaves
shade the fruit (which delays ripening). On staked plants, leave
some foliage to protect the ripening tomatoes. Also, control early
blight and other diseases that cause tomato plants to lose their
foliage.
Pests – Watch carefully for problems
and always identify the pest before attempting to treat it. For
help, take a sample to your Southern States dealer for identification
and advice on control measures.
See your local Southern States dealer for all the seeds, seedlings
and products you'll need to grow healthy, delicious tomatoes.
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