Tomatoes are a mainstay of the backyard garden and the Saturday morning farmer's market. Being a successful gardener requires knowledge, skill and persistence. Every summer, nature pits the skills of the gardener against weather, insects and diseases. These challenges test our ability to grow plants free of blemishes from sun scald or blossom end rot, disease spots and rots and holes from chewing insects. In the end many gardeners feel it is worth all the time, expense and effort to raise that perfect tomato.
Tomatoes are subject to many diseases.
This NebGuide will focus on the most common and serious ones that can damage our home grown tomatoes here in Nebraska. Fungi and bacteria attack leaves, stems and fruits and cause plants to wilt and die in midseason. More than 30 viruses can malform tomato plants and fruits. Septoria Leaf Spot Figure 1. These spores are spread from this source to growing plants by wind or by water droplets from rain or sprinklers splashing them onto the lower leaves.