Early blight is generally observed on older plants.  |
Symptoms: Early symptoms appear as small blackish lesions on older leaves. Photo by Plant Disease Clinic |
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Symptoms: Spots enlarge and develop concentric rings. Spotted leaves may prematurely die. Photo by Plant Disease Clinic |
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Symptoms: Fruit may also be infected. Photo by Cindy Ash |
| Causal organism: | Alternaria solani |
| Over wintering: | In infected plant material and debris |
| Months of infection: | June-September? |
| Method of dispersal: | Infected seed, wind and rain |
| Infection point: | Direct penetration of leaf tissue and through wounds |
| Control: | Use resistant cultivars. Look for an "Al" designation. |
| Labeled fungicides | Several fungicides, including Aliette/Maneb and Kocide 101(Copper Hydroxide), are labeled for control of Early Blight on nonresistant cultivars. As always, follow manufacturers' instruction. |
| Comments: | Use of disease resistant varieties is the best way to control this disease. |
| For Additional Information | Back to Tomato Diseases |
