sad tomato plants - Ask Extension
Hello! I seem to have some trouble growing tomatoes, which seems silly because they are supposed to be relatively easy! I added compost to my garden p...
Knowledgebase
sad tomato plants #706056
Asked July 27, 2020, 2:51 PM EDT
Hello! I seem to have some trouble growing tomatoes, which seems silly because they are supposed to be relatively easy! I added compost to my garden plot at the beginning of the season and I am attempting to grow them without fertilizers but they all look rather sad. My best growing plant has developed some yellowing/browning leaves over time and I am starting to grow more concerned as the problem spreads. Is there anything I can do for this plant?
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Yellow leaves at the bottom of the plant can be removed. It is usually the result of septoria leaf spot which overwinters in the soil. See: https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/insects-and-diseases-tomatoes
A soil test at the beginning of the season is a good idea so you know what fertilizer is needed. Growing tomatoes without fertilizer will be challenging as they are heavy feeders. They probably have used all the nutrients in the soil. Too little fertilizer and you get stunted plants. To much fertilizer and you get lots of leaves and few fruit. It’s a delicate balance. You might want to try organic fertilizers. See: https://extension.umn.edu/vegetables/growing-tomatoes Also see: https://local.extension.umn.edu/local/stearns/county-horticulture-educator/article/understanding-fertilizers-your-yard-and-gardens
Oh! Ok, thank you! Should I be removing all of the affected leaves even if they are halfway up the plant now?
Yes, if they are yellow they are not serving the plant and will only spread it to the other leaves.
Thank you so much!
You are welcome.
