How to spot it

Many small round spots, about 1/8 inch, with dark edges and gray-tan centers, often with tiny black dots inside. It starts on the lower leaves, usually after the first fruit sets.

What it does

Leaves yellow and drop from the bottom up, leaving fruit exposed to sunscald.

What to do now

• Pick off spotted leaves and throw them away.
• Mulch, and keep water off the leaves.
• A copper spray can slow it, following the label.

Keep it away next time

• Grow tomatoes in a new spot each year.
• Stake and prune so leaves dry fast.
• Clear away tomato debris in fall.

Helpful supplies

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Plants it affects

See also