Why Are My Tomato Plants' Leaves Turning Yellow?
There are four possible causes for the leaves of tomato plants to turn from a healthy deep-green to yellow, according to a Colorado State University Extension Fact Sheet. These are nutrient imbalances, disease, fungi or pests. Does this Spark an idea?
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Pests
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Some common tomato pests that can turn leaves yellow are psyllids, flea beetles, tomato hornworms, whiteflies and aphids. Determine if pests are the problem by checking the top and underside of the leaves carefully for insects, larvae, eggs, chewing marks or a sticky excrement.
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Fungi
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Early blight, Fusarium wilt and Verticillium wilt are fungi that are usually brought on by improper watering or fertilizing. The Ohio State University Extension recommends removing and destroying diseased plants. Moreover, it suggests not planting potatoes, tomatoes, peppers or eggplants in that location for four to six years, because fungi can live on in the soil.
Disease
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Viruses such as curly top and cucumber mosaic virus can affect tomato plants. Some viruses are spread by insects such as leaf hoppers, while others may occur because of improper handling of seeds.
Imbalances
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A lack of nitrogen can result in yellow leaves, as can inconsistent watering. A buildup of salt or other minerals in the soil may also discolor leaves.
Prevention/Solution
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The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service recommends purchasing seeds or starter plants that are disease-resistant. These are labeled on plants as "V" (Verticillium wilt), "F" (Fusarium wilt), "N" (Nematodes), "A" (early blight) and "T" (tobacco mosaic virus).
References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Ben Ostrowsky
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Comments
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The new leaves on my tomato plant are turning yellow. The color contrast is dramatic between the green stems and the yellow leaves on new growth. Watering has been erratic, but can change that. I applied pelletized lime last fall. Then I fertilized the ground with 12-12-12 two months prior to planting. So, I don't think it is lack of fertilizer. The yellow leaves have not yet begun to curl or look sick other than color. Any ideas?
