the bottom leaves on my tomato plants have all turned yellow. what causes this and what should i do about it?

Answer 1

The bottom leaves are usually sun leaves, and aren't that important. If the rest of your plant is growing well, I wouldn't worry about it

Answer 2

The two most common reasons are from the way you water it (possibly over-watering or cold water hitting the leaves) or it cold have a blight/disease that comes from the ground the tomatoes are planted in. It is recommended not to smoke around your tomatoes. Tobacco has plant diseases that can spread to your tomatos, even through the smoke I believe. Also try to vary where you plant your tomato plants. Don't plant them in the same spot year after year. Also don't plant your tomatos in the same spot you plant you plant potatos regularly because they are the same type of plant. I would rotate where you plant them with your green beans.

It also probably wouldn't be a bad idea to spray your tomato plants with something like Sevin spray for parasites like the one person mentioned.

Answer 3

tomato plants have what are called suckers. these should be snipped. These are where flowers will not form. thus be the green thumb. The plant may look bare, but will produce quite a bit of fruit. Be care full not to pinch the small (fuzzy) like leaves these produce flowers.

Good Luck

Answer 4

Many conditions may cause these symptoms including spider mites, diseases and nutrient deficiencies. Examine the underside of the leaves for small red to greenish mites. If mites are found, treat with Kelthane, malathion or sulfur dust. Make two to three applications at 5-day intervals for best results. http://plantanswers.tamu.edu/vegetables/tomato.html

It could also be water splashing up from rain or watering onto the lower leaves - it causes them to turn yellow and the effect can spread upwards.
http://www.helpfulgardener.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=1484

try mixing some epsom salts with water and apply to soil. your soil probably lacks magnesium.
http://www.thriftyfun.com/tf482428.tip.html

http://plantanswers.tamu.edu/vegetables/tomat2.html

Answer 5

It's normal - don't worry about it as long as the upper leaves are healthy, they will be fine.

Answer 6

Sounds to me like a fungus. Spray with a fungicide.

Answer 7

over watering... remove these leaves.

cheers