Measures to Take Against Hydroponic Tomato Wilting

Hydroponic Systems

• Hydroponic systems include a range of styles suited for specific plants, growing mediums and locations. Tomato plants hydroponically grown are less likely to experience fusarium and verticillium wilts, which are common diseases spread through soil. In a hydroponic system, there is no soil to act as a refuge for these diseases or other pests that often are responsible for wilting foliage. Tomatoes are planted in a non-soil based aggregate and flooded with nutrient solution, or are supported in continuous flow systems without aggregates. Hydroponic systems often are set up to include timers; this allows for consistent delivery of nutrient solution. Consistency is important because leaf roll can occur when irrigation is sporadic. Leaf curl symptoms include limp, which are wilted leaves that curl in on themselves. The condition is temporary and doesn't affect fruiting. The condition reverses once a regular irrigation schedule is put in place.

Pests and Disease

• Hydroponic systems are prone to gray mold diseases and viruses that do not present as wilting. Instead, leaves take on a mottled appearance or severe discoloration. Wilting occurs when plants are exposed to insects such as the sap-sucking greenhouse whitefly. Within a highly controlled hydroponic greenhouse environment, this insect has no natural predators and can breed prolifically. Prevent and control the number of insects by keeping all areas clear of debris, and place insect strips throughout the greenhouse. These strips also trap other insects, such as leaf-miners and two-spotted spider mites, that are problematic in hydroponic environments.

Prevention and Treatment

• In aggregate systems viruses, bacteria and pests can invade the aggregate and attack the tomato plant, causing it to wilt. In continuous flow systems, where nutrient solution and water is recycled throughout the system, tomatoes may be exposed repeatedly to impure conditions. Pests and disease continually flow into the tomato culture. To prevent contamination of both continuous flow and aggregate-based hydroponic systems, ensure the aggregate is clean and sterile prior to planting, and periodically test nutrient solutions for contaminants. Testing kits are available through most hydroponic supply locations. Once the tomato plants have experienced wilt, it is important to sterilize all of the hydroponic equipment, quarantine damaged plants and purchase new seeds for the next growing season.

Light

• Insufficient life can cause wilting. Light-starved plants become spindly, yellow and limp. Control the lighting by installing timer lights and using a broad-spectrum lighting system.