Tomato plants are popular with garden enthusiasts, but unfortunately, they can be prone to rot. Why do tomato plants rot? This is a question that many people ask themselves. Many people wonder: why do tomato plants rot? This can be caused by several factors, including too much moisture, poor drainage, fungal diseases, and bacterial infections. In this article, we explain the most common reasons why tomato plants rot, how to prevent the problem, and what steps you can take if your plants are showing signs of rot.

Reasons why tomato plants rot

Excess moisture and poor drainage
One of the most common reasons why tomato plants rot is overwatering or poor drainage. When the soil remains too wet for a long time, the plant's roots don't get enough oxygen, which can lead to root rot.
Fungal diseases
Fungal diseases such asPythiumandPhytophthorathrive in moist environments and can spread quickly in the soil. These diseases attack the plant's roots, stems and fruits, often resulting in brown or black rot.
Bacterial infections
Bacteria such asErwiniaandPseudomonascan also cause rot. Such infections often occur when the plants are damaged, for example by pruning or insect damage.
Nutrient imbalance:
A lack of essential nutrients, especially calcium, can cause blossom end rot in tomatoes. This can happen even if the soil is rich in calcium, if the plant is unable to absorb it due to uneven watering.

How to prevent rot in tomato plants

Use an automatic watering system thatTropf Blumatto ensure even and optimal watering. This prevents overwatering and keeps the soil evenly moist.
Improve drainage by planting your tomatoes in well-draining soil and avoiding compact clay soil.
Avoid splashing water on the leaves by using drip irrigation instead of overhead irrigation. This reduces the risk of fungal diseases.
Rotate crops each year to prevent the buildup of disease-causing organisms in the soil.
Ensure good air circulation around the plants to minimize humidity and reduce the risk of diseases.

Symptoms of rot in tomato plants

It is important to detect rot early to be able to save the plant. Look for:

Dark, soft spots on the stems and fruits.
Weak, limp plants that appear to be drowned.
Brown or black discoloration of the roots.
A foul odor indicates a bacterial infection.

Treatment of diseased tomato plants

If you detect rot, you can:

Remove the infected parts of the plant and disinfect the scissors afterwards.
Improve drainage by adding sand or perlite to the soil.
Use fungicides specific to tomato diseases.
Adjust watering using a system like Tropf Blumat to avoid uneven moisture.

Growing tomatoes in greenhouses

Growing tomatoes in greenhouses offers more control over growing conditions, but it also requires proper care:

Keep the temperature between 18–25°C for optimal growth.
Use ventilation to reduce humidity and prevent diseases.
Install automatic watering , such as Tropf Blumat, for even moisture.

Summary

Why do tomato plants rot? The most common causes are overwatering, poor drainage, fungal diseases and bacterial infections. By using a smart watering system like the Tropf Blumat, you can ensure that your plants get the right amount of water and reduce the risk of rot.