Tomato Problem

Chatham County, April 2003

Diagnosis: Ozone Injury

This tomato sample was sent to NCSU's Plant Disease and Insect Clinic for diagnosis. Comments from Dr. Frank Louws, NCSU Plant Pathologist: The lesions were irregular and dry. There was no indication of the pathogen. Symptoms were also widespread throughout the state on tomato seedlings and other plants. The problem is consistent with ozone injury and plants should recover well. If problems persist a follow-up sample may be beneficial.

Leaf symptoms suggest air pollution injury (ozone damage). There is no control. Symptoms are usually more severe on lower leaves. New growth should be healthy unless more days with high ozone levels occur. Visit NCSU's Ozone Website for more information.

4-pack tomatoes

4-pack tomatoes

close-up of leaves

This page last updated January 16, 2006.