Get Ahead of Vegetable Diseases

MSU Extension Service

A group of ripening tomatoes are shown in a close-up.

Tomatoes can be a challenge to grow with several fungi, bacteria and viruses that can reduce the quality and yields of the crop. (Photo by Alan Henn)

Bone-chilling temps have you stuck inside dreaming of that first home-grown tomato sandwich? Well, this is a great time to prepare for a healthy crop.

Tomatoes are popular but can be particularly tricky to grow. They are susceptible to a number of fungi, bacteria, and viruses that can reduce crop quality and yields. But, fear not.

We have a new publication specifically for tomato producers to help with identifying some of the most common tomato diseases. This publication is aimed at commercial and backyard crops produced in the field.

Greenhouse producers: We have a publication just for you. It focuses on diseases most commonly found in the greenhouse environment.

You can find the link to it here, along with other disease-management resources for various types of commercial and home vegetable crops.

Also, check out the new vegetable disease calendar page for some upcoming events that will include discussions about vegetable disease management. Note: This is not an exclusive list.

If you’d like to share feedback or offer suggestions to our specialists and agents for research and education in your region, make plans to attend the Producer Advisory Council meeting in your area:

Northeast District: Feb. 15 at 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Verona at the Lee County Agri-Center, next door to the North Mississippi Research and Extension Center
Central District: Feb. 20 at 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Raymond at McKenzie Arena, behind the Central Mississippi Research and Extension Center
Coastal District: Feb. 27 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Howard Technology Park in Ellisville

For more events related to vegetable disease management, visit our Extension calendar or call your local Extension office.