Knowledgebase

Tomato leaf discoloration #878692

Asked July 25, 2024, 9:23 AM EDT

The lower leaves of my tomato plants have yellowing leaves with green veins as noted in the picture. The leaves higher up on the plant look normal however the discolored leaves seem to be making their way up the plant. Could this be a nutritional deficiency? Thanks!

Arenac County Michigan

Expert Response

Hi Jeff, thanks for the question.  

This does look like a Magnesium deficiency.  The lower leaves being located on the bottom of the plant and the distinct interveinal chlorosis makes a good case for this deficiency. Low soil magnesium may be the cause especially in light sandy soil. High potassium can inhibit magnesium uptake as can a pH outside of a tomatoes acceptable range.  High levels of calcium with low levels of magnesium can also cause an uptake issue. Imbalance of the ratio of nutrients will cause deficiencies.  A soil test (Home | MSU Soil Test) can help.  Magnesium can be added with Epsom salts (see link). Check out the following links:

Magnesium Deficiency in Tomato and the Relationship with other Important Nutrients — Plant & Pest Advisory (rutgers.edu)

Monitoring and Correcting Magnesium Deficiency in High Tunnels (sdstate.edu)

I hope this is helpful.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 25, 2024, 8:29 PM EDT

Loading ...