Knowledgebase
What is causing these tomatoes to grow this way? #876093
Asked July 06, 2024, 12:07 PM EDT
Hamilton County Ohio
Expert Response
Thank you for questions.
Overwatering or underwatering could cause leaf curling on tomato plants.
In addition, it looks like there is a white fuzzy mass on one of the leaves in the first pic which can indicate a fungal issue.
Abnormal growth is a classic symptom caused by many virus diseases. In tomato, there are several virus diseases (e.g. curly top) that cause "twisted" growth especially of the newer, younger leaves. In many cases the curling (twisting) is quite erratic with no particular pattern.
Tomato plants damaged by herbicide will often have twisted growth. Leaves will roll downward. The stems may turn white and may even split. Damage is often more noticeable on new growth. Sometimes the tomato plants can grow out of the damage and produce normally. But if tomato plants are been subjected to a high dose of herbicide, then they may never recover and should be discarded.