7 Tomato Plant Pests and How to Get Rid of Them

Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that damage tomato plants by piercing them, causing growth to curl and deform. Promoting natural predators like lady beetles helps control aphid populations.

Armyworms

Armyworms are larvae that attack tomatoes, leaving holes in ripening fruit. They have a yellow or cream stripe on their gray or black bodies. 

Cutworms

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Hornworms

Hornworms are large, green caterpillars with a distinctive "horn." They can defoliate tomato plants rapidly. Handpicking and parasitic wasps are effective controls.

Silverleaf Whiteflies

Silverleaf whiteflies pierce plant tissue and suck sap, causing yellowing leaves and reduced yield. Maintaining healthy plants with regular watering and mulch can help manage them.

Stink Bugs

Stink bugs pierce and suck sap from tomato plants, causing yellow spots on fruit. Prevention includes keeping garden areas tidy to reduce their overwintering sites.

Spider Mites

Spider mites cause yellow spots and webbing on leaves, leading to leaf drop. They thrive in hot, dry conditions. Regular watering and insecticidal soap can help manage infestations.