Preventive Early Blight Control

Host: Joanna Coles, Warren County Extension Agent for Agriculture & Natural Resources Guest: Jason Phillips, Simpson County Extension Agent for Agriculture & Natural Resources Topic: Preventive Early Blight Control The Farm and Home Show features a discussion with Jason Phillips, a Simpson County Extension agent, about common problems with growing tomatoes. Many gardeners become discouraged when tomato plants decline, which is often caused by fungal diseases, especially early blight. By the time leaves are burning or yellowing from the bottom, the disease is usually advanced and harder to control. Home gardeners need to be proactive, starting fungicide applications once plants reach a couple of feet tall or when early symptoms appear. Several fungicide options are available, including organic choices like copper and conventional products such as maneb, mancozeb, manzate pro-stick, and dithane. Growers are advised to alternate fungicides weekly to improve effectiveness and prevent disease resistance. As tomatoes begin producing fruit, growers should switch to products with shorter harvest intervals, such as copper and one of the listed herbicide options. Although weekly spraying requires commitment, consistent care leads to healthier plants and longer harvests. Choosing disease-resistant tomato varieties can reduce problems, while heirloom varieties require extra diligence because they lack resistance. Proactive disease management not only improves the current season’s yield but also prevents fungal pathogens from building up in the garden over time. Combining consistent weekly care with smart variety selection helps gardeners enjoy productive tomato plants throughout the growing season.