Preventing Tomato Late Blight with Effective Fungicides and Gardening Techniques

Tomato late blight, a fungal disease caused by Phytophthora infestans, is a significant threat to tomato crops worldwide. The disease can lead to reduced yields, lower quality fruit, and even complete crop failure. However, there are effective ways to prevent and manage tomato late blight, including the use of resistant varieties, good gardening practices, and fungicides.

One such variety is the recently developed orange-fruited tomato that boasts super blight resistance. This high-yielding variety produces a mass of brightly colored, rich orange tomatoes ideal for growing outdoors. As Simon Crawford notes, 'Many modern tomato varieties have made growing outdoor tomatoes easier because of earlier ripening and improved disease resistance.'

Growing blight-resistant tomato varieties is just one aspect of preventing the disease. Proper gardening practices can also play a crucial role in reducing the risk of infection. For instance, it's essential to avoid planting potatoes and tomatoes in the same soil for successive years. Clearing old potato plots and proper composting are also vital to reduce infection.

Tammy Sons emphasizes that 'history will repeat itself' if not taken care of. Tomato blight spores can remain in the ground for up to 3-4 years, so it's essential to ensure that tomatoes are planted in disease-free soil or compost. Never plant tomatoes in soil or compost that has previously contained diseased plants.

In addition to good gardening practices, there are several environmental controls that can help prevent the occurrence and spread of tomato blight. These include:

* Watering at soil level to avoid leaves resting on damp soil

* Removing lower leaves as fruits develop

* Trimming foliage and side-shoots to maximize air movement

* Providing maximum sun exposure by removing any shading plants or structures

* Keeping greenhouses or polytunnels well ventilated

Fungicides can also be used in conjunction with these environmental controls to prevent and manage tomato late blight. When choosing a fungicide, it's essential to select one that is specifically labeled for use against Phytophthora infestans.

In conclusion, preventing tomato late blight requires a combination of good gardening practices, resistant varieties, and effective fungicides. By following these tips, gardeners can reduce the risk of infection and enjoy a healthy and productive tomato crop.

References:

* Simon Crawford's article on growing outdoor tomatoes

* Tammy Sons' warning about the longevity of tomato blight spores

* Getty Images for environmental control images

Tomato late blight fungicides