Natural Ways to Kill Blight on Tomatoes

What is Blight?

• Blight is caused by the fungus Alternaria solani. This fungus germinates on tomatoes within two to three hours, infecting the plant's foliage and fruit. Foliage wilts, growth slows and leaves drop. Fruits often do not develop or drop from the plant. Warm temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and a moist environment are ideal conditions for tomato blight. Any tomato plant can be affected by the disease, but plants that are already stressed due to improper growing conditions or poor fertilization are most susceptible.

Treatments

• There are a variety of natural blight treatment products for tomatoes. Compost teas are made by combining 1 pound of compost with 5 gallons of water in a covered bucket and steeping for three to four weeks. Dilute the finished product at a ratio of about 1/2 cup to 1 gallon water and spray over plants weekly to kill off the fungus causing blight.

  Baking soda spray, made of 1 tablespoon baking soda, a squirt of liquid soap, 2 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil and 1 gallon of water, is noted for fighting blight when used on a weekly basis.

  Products containing ingredients such as skim milk, lime and alcohol along with the ingredients listed above are also treatment options. Continue spraying your chosen remedy on a regular basis to ensure the fungus can't reestablish itself in your tomato garden.

Control

• Allowing a moderate amount of insect activity in your garden can help control the spread of blight, as the insects consume infected leaves and thus, some of the spores. More effective additional measures include manual removal of diseased leaves and fruits. Done early, this method is quite effective in treating blight. Finally, remove diseased plants to save healthy plants from becoming infected. If necessary to keep a good-sized crop, replant fresh, clean seeds.

Effectiveness

• Conventional, chemical treatments are formulated and designed to act quickly to wipe out fungal disease. Natural remedies are effective, but often require more time and effort to achieve the same results as chemical treatments. Be persistent with treatment, treating vigorously and daily until the disease is under control. Monitor plants for new blight growth or signs that the problem is not improving. If the blight appears to be getting worse or staying the same, increased treatment may be needed. In extreme cases, contact an extension agent or farmer for help resolving your situation.