Sometimes tomatoes suffer from various diseases and pests that can damage or even destroy the crop. One of these symptoms is yellowing of tomato leaves. Why does this happen and what to do in this case?
Causes of yellowing tomato leaves
Yellowing of tomato leaves can have different causes, which depend on the place, time and nature of the appearance of yellow spots or stripes on the leaves. Here are some of them.
Lack or excess of moisture
Tomatoes like moderate watering, but do not tolerate drought or stagnant water.
If the soil is too dry or too wet, the roots of tomatoes cannot get enough nutrients and oxygen, which leads to yellowing of the leaves. To avoid this, you need to water the tomatoes regularly, but not too often, and ensure good drainage of the soil.
Lack or excess of fertilizers
Tomatoes require a balanced diet that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other microelements.
If the soil is poor or over-fertilized, this can cause yellowing of tomato leaves. To avoid this, you need to feed tomatoes according to the fertilizer manufacturer's recommendations and not overdo it with doses.
Diseases and pests
Tomatoes are susceptible to various diseases and pests that can damage the leaves and stems of the plants.
For example, late blight, verticillium wilt, alternaria, aphids, thrips, etc. These diseases and pests can cause yellowing of tomato leaves of different shapes and locations.
To avoid this, you need to carry out prevention and protection of tomatoes from diseases and pests using special preparations and folk remedies.
What to do if tomato leaves start to turn yellow
If you notice yellowing of tomato leaves in your garden or summer house, there is no need to panic.
In most cases, this can be corrected with timely measures. Here's what to do.
1. Determine the cause of yellowing of tomato leaves. To do this, you need to carefully examine the plants and soil, and also take into account the weather conditions and growing periods. If you are not sure of the diagnosis, you can contact specialists or experienced gardeners for advice.
2. Eliminate the cause of yellowing of tomato leaves. To do this, you need to adjust the watering and fertilizing regime, as well as carry out treatment against diseases and pests. If the yellowing of tomato leaves is severe or widespread, then you can cut off the damaged leaves so as not to waste the plant's energy on their restoration.
3. Maintain the plants in good condition. To do this, you need to continue to care for the tomatoes, monitoring their growth and development. You also need to provide them with enough light, air and heat, as well as protect them from adverse factors such as strong wind, hail, frost, etc.
Conclusion
Yellowing of tomato leaves is a signal that the plants need your help.
Identify the cause of the yellowing and eliminate it, as well as maintain the plants in good condition. This will help you grow healthy and tasty tomatoes.