During periods of high humidity and temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, an opportunistic fungal infection may wreak havoc on your tomato plants. Caused by the fungus Septoria lycopersici, septoria leaf spot is characterized by circular spots which range in diameter from 1/16 to 1/4 inch and appear either tan, dark brown or gray. The fungus is spread through infected plants and equipment and, if left untreated, will pass fast and affect a whole crop, regardless of what the plant’s era. Prevention, good safety measures as well as the use of copper-based fungicides would be the very best approaches to stop septoria from propagating.
Inspect the tomato seedling prior to planting. While in the home improvement store or nursery, then look for the early signals of septoria leaf spot, for example, tan, brown or gray rings. Merely introduce plants that seem healthy and disease-free.
Choose a planting site featuring well-drained soil and plenty of exposure to light winds and sunlight. Septoria spreads more quickly on moist leaves, so choose an area which allows the plants to stay as dry as you can.
Spread a thin layer of mulch around the growing tomato seedlings. The mulch acts as a protective shield that doesn’t allow septoria spores to dash onto the tomato leaves or stems through irrigation.
Irrigate the plants early in the day and, if you can, avoid using an overhead watering system. Watering near the base of this plant helps keep the foliage comparatively free of excess moisture, which the septoria needs to thrive.
Monitor your growing tomato plants and pluck off any diseased leaves instantly after you notice the infection. The infection generally starts on the lower leaves and goes up. Toss or burn the infected leaves. Never mulch or compost them, as this will only propagate the septoria fungus.
Treat the tomato plants using a copper-based fungicide at the first indication of this septoria infection, or straight after the creation of fruit clusters. Use the product to the sides of this tomato leaves and the center stock. To help control the spread of septoria to the plant’s additional leaves, then forcing the fungicide every seven to 14 days.