What should you do with tomatoes curly leaf?

It sounds like your tomato plant has a problem called curly leaf virus. This is a serious issue that can significantly impact your tomato yield. Here's what you should do:

1. Identify the Problem:

* Check the Leaves: The leaves will be curled and distorted, often with a leathery texture. They might also have a yellowing (chlorosis) or discoloration.

* Look for Other Symptoms: You might also see stunting, mosaic patterns on the leaves, and reduced fruit production.

2. Prevention is Key:

* Use Certified Seed: Buy seeds from reputable sources that are certified disease-free.

* Control Insects: Curly leaf virus is often spread by insects, especially whiteflies. Control these insects with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

* Clean Tools: Disinfect your gardening tools regularly to prevent the spread of disease.

3. Treatment Options:

* Unfortunately, there is no cure for curly leaf virus. Once a plant is infected, it will remain infected.

* Remove Infected Plants: To prevent the virus from spreading, remove and destroy infected plants immediately. Do not compost them as the virus may survive in the compost.

* Monitor Other Plants: Keep a close eye on your other tomato plants for signs of the virus.

4. Prevention for Next Year:

* Crop Rotation: Rotate your tomato crops to different areas of your garden each year to reduce the build-up of disease.

* Solarization: Use solarization to kill soilborne pathogens in the areas where you had infected plants. This involves covering the soil with clear plastic for several weeks during hot weather.

5. Consider Alternatives:

* Resistant Varieties: Choose tomato varieties that are resistant to curly leaf virus if possible.

* New Plants: If your tomato plants are infected, you may want to consider starting new plants.

Remember:

* Early detection and prevention are crucial.

* Always follow the directions on any pesticides or other treatments carefully.

* Consult a local nursery or garden center for advice on managing curly leaf virus.