Knowledgebase
Home garden tomato problem #879295
Asked July 29, 2024, 4:21 PM EDT
Livingston County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Reginna, thanks for the question.
You are correct about overhead watering. Prolonged leaf wetness provides the perfect environment for pathogens to take hold. It appears the plants are infected with septoria leaf spot and possibly early blight. Both are spread by wind and rain so trimming lower leaves helps rain splash from the ground. Tools, insects, and hands can also spread the disease. Removing plant debris and weeds from the site is also helpful. Both these diseases are best controlled by prevention; however, treatment after infection can slow the spread. Warm temperatures, variety, as well as other issues can delay ripening. Check out the following links:
Septoria Leaf Spot – Wisconsin Horticulture
Early Blight – Wisconsin Horticulture
Septoria leaf spot on tomatoes: More ways to prevent spots before your eyes - MSU Extension
I hope this is helpful.