Most Common Tomatillo Plant Pests:
Identification and Treatment Guide

Tomatillos are a popular and versatile plant in the garden, known for their tangy flavor and use in various recipes. However, like any other plant, tomatillos are susceptible to pests that can wreak havoc on their growth and productivity. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common tomatillo plant pests, how to identify them, and the best treatment methods to keep your tomatillo plants healthy and thriving.

Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found in various colors, including green, black, brown, or yellow. These tiny pests typically cluster on the undersides of leaves or new growth, sucking sap from the plant. If left untreated, aphids can cause leaf curling, yellowing, and stunted growth in tomatillo plants.

To control aphids on your tomatillo plants, start by physically removing them using a strong jet of water or by wiping them off with a damp cloth. You can also introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings, as they feed on aphids and help keep their population in check. In severe cases, you may need to resort to organic insecticidal soap sprays or neem oil.

Tomato Hornworms

Tomato hornworms are large caterpillars that can quickly defoliate a tomatillo plant if not controlled promptly. These pests have a green body with white V-shaped markings on their sides and a horn-like protuberance at the rear end. Tomato hornworms blend in well with the foliage of the plant, making them difficult to spot initially.

To manually remove tomato hornworms from your tomatillo plants, wear gloves and pick them off by hand. Alternatively, you can introduce natural predators like parasitic wasps or release Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a biological control agent that specifically targets caterpillars. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation, and if necessary, apply an organic insecticide specifically formulated for caterpillar control.

Whiteflies

Whiteflies are small, winged insects that resemble tiny white moths when in flight. They primarily infest the undersides of leaves and feed by sucking sap from the plant, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. Additionally, whiteflies excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold on the leaves.

To control whiteflies on your tomatillo plants, start by physically removing heavily infested leaves or plants. You can also use yellow sticky traps to capture adult whiteflies. Introducing natural predators like parasitic wasps or lacewings can also help control their population. In severe cases, consider using insecticidal soap sprays or neem oil to target both the adults and nymphs.

Cutworms

Cutworms are nocturnal pests that feed on the stems of young tomatillo plants, often severing them at the base. These pests are dark-colored caterpillars that curl into a C-shape when disturbed. Cutworms typically hide in the soil during the day and emerge at night to feed.

To protect your tomatillo plants from cutworms, create a physical barrier around the base of each plant using cardboard collars or toilet paper rolls. This will prevent the cutworms from reaching the stems. You can also apply beneficial nematodes to the soil, as they prey on cutworm larvae. If you spot any cutworms, handpick them and dispose of them away from your garden.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves, where they suck the sap from the plant. Spider mite infestations can cause yellowing leaves, webbing, and overall decline in tomatillo plants.

To control spider mites on your tomatillo plants, regularly spray the undersides of leaves with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Introducing natural predators like predatory mites or ladybugs can help keep their population in check. If necessary, apply organic insecticidal soap sprays or neem oil to target spider mites effectively.

Conclusion

Identifying and treating common pests is crucial for maintaining healthy and productive tomatillo plants. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation and take proactive measures to prevent pests from causing significant damage. By implementing proper pest control strategies, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of tangy tomatillos throughout the growing season.