Updated: June 27, 2022

Cherry tomatoes are a popular and delicious addition to any garden, but they are also susceptible to a number of fungal diseases. Fungal infections can cause leaves to yellow and wilt, fruit to rot, and can even kill the plant if left untreated. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to prevent and treat fungus on your cherry tomato plants.

Prevention

Preventing fungal infections is the best way to keep your cherry tomato plants healthy. Here are some tips to help prevent fungal infections:

Plant in Well-Drained Soil

Fungal infections thrive in moist environments, so it is important to plant your cherry tomato plants in well-drained soil. If your soil is clay-like or tends to hold water, consider adding compost or sand to improve drainage.

Water at the Base of the Plant

Avoid watering your cherry tomato plants from above. Watering from above can splash water onto the leaves and create a moist environment that is ideal for fungal growth. Instead, water at the base of the plant.

Space Your Plants Apart

Fungal infections can spread quickly from one plant to another, so it is important to space your cherry tomato plants apart. This will help ensure good air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal infections spreading.

Remove Infected Leaves

If you notice any leaves on your cherry tomato plants that are yellow or have spots, remove them immediately. This will help prevent the spread of fungal infections.

Treatment

If your cherry tomato plants have already been infected with fungus, there are steps you can take to treat the infection:

Apply Fungicide

Fungicides can be effective in treating fungal infections on cherry tomato plants. Look for a fungicide that is specifically designed for use on tomatoes and follow the instructions carefully.

Prune Infected Areas

If your cherry tomato plants have already been infected with fungus, you may need to prune infected areas. This will help prevent the spread of the infection to other parts of the plant.

Use Organic Remedies

There are a number of organic remedies that can be effective in treating fungal infections on cherry tomato plants. These include:

  • Baking soda: Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 gallon of water and spray on affected plants.
  • Neem oil: Dilute neem oil according to the instructions and spray on affected plants.
  • Garlic: Crush several garlic cloves and mix with water. Strain the mixture and spray on affected plants.

FAQ

What causes fungus on cherry tomato plants?

Fungal infections on cherry tomato plants are typically caused by moist environments and poor air circulation.

Can I eat tomatoes from a plant that has had a fungal infection?

It is generally safe to eat tomatoes from a plant that has had a fungal infection, as long as the infected areas have been removed.

How often should I apply fungicide to my cherry tomato plants?

The frequency of fungicide application will depend on the specific fungicide you are using. Follow the instructions carefully.

Is there anything else I can do to prevent fungal infections on my cherry tomato plants?

In addition to the prevention tips listed above, you can also choose disease-resistant tomato varieties and use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.