Early Blight Disease In Tomatoes: How To Spot And Stop It In Its Tracks?

Tomato, one of the most important Horticultural crops, globally faces threat from Pests and Diseases. This blog explains the main threat in the Tomato crop called “Early Blight”, leading to significant yield losses if left unchecked. In this article, we'll explore effective measures to control and manage Early Blight.

What is Early Blight?

Alternaria solani causes early blight in tomatoes. It is a serious disease, causing 50% to 86% losses in fruit yield and 20% to 40% losses in seedling establishment. Plants infected with early blight develop small black or brown spots, usually about 0.25 to 0.5 inch (6–12 mm) in diameter, on leaves, stems, and fruit. Leaf spots are leathery and often have a concentric ring pattern. They usually appear on older leaves first.

Short Description of Early Blight

Here is the detail information related to the Early Blight:

Favorable factors of Early Blight in Tomato Crop

Early blight flourishes in warm temperatures, typically between 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). High humidity levels, exceeding 80%, provide moist conditions ideal for fungal spore germination and infection. Dew formation on leaves further exacerbates the issue.

Symptoms of Tomato Crop affected by Early Blight

Main symptoms of plant affected by Early Blight are:

• Small, circular or irregular brown or black flecks, often near the leaf veins or margins.
• The area surrounding the initial spots may begin to yellow, indicating the start of leaf tissue death.
• In advanced stages, as the infection spreads and lesions enlarge, leaves may wilt and eventually drop.
• Severely infected leaves drop prematurely, leaving bare stems.
• The plant significantly slows down or stops growing.
• Affected plants produce fewer and smaller fruits, leading to significant yield loss.

Measures for control of Early Blight in Tomato

Early blight in tomatoes, caused by the fungus Alternaria solani, can lead to significant yield loss if not properly managed. Here are effective measures for controlling early blight in tomato crops such as cultural method of control, Biological and organic control methods and chemical method.

Bio and Organic products for control of early Blight in Tomato Crop 

Here are the best recommendations of bio and organic products.

Chemical control methods for Early Blight in Tomato Crop

Here are the best recommendations of Chemical control measures.

Tomato Early Blight Related FAQs :

Q. What are the symptoms of Early Blight in tomato plants?

A. Symptoms include small circular or irregular brown or black spots on leaves, yellowing around spots, wilting, premature leaf drop, and reduced fruit production.

Q. How can I control Early Blight using organic products?

A. You can use organic products like "ALL IN ONE" at a dosage of 1.5 to 2 grams per liter to help control Early Blight in tomato crops.

Q. When is the best time to apply control measures for Early Blight?

A. Begin preventive measures early in the growing season, especially during warm and humid periods, to reduce the risk of Early Blight development.

Q. How do I apply chemical controls for Early Blight?

A. Follow recommended dosages per acre for chemical products and ensure even application on affected plants, focusing on leaves and stems.