Cherry Tomato: The 10 Most Common Pests and Diseases

Growing cherry tomatoes is popular due to their sweet taste and high productivity. However, these plants can be affected by various pests and diseases. The cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) is a small variety with an intense sweet flavor. It's widely cultivated in home gardens and commercial farms. Common pests include aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Aphids are small insects that feed on sap, weakening plants. Whiteflies excrete a substance that promotes fungal growth. Spider mites feed on leaf cells, causing yellow spots. Common diseases include late blight, powdery mildew, and blossom-end rot. Late blight is a fungus thriving in humid conditions, affecting leaves, stems, and fruits. Powdery mildew appears as a white powder on leaves. Blossom-end rot is a calcium deficiency causing black spots on fruits. Pest and disease control requires prevention, biological management, and cultural practices. Frequent observation and ecological treatments help maintain a healthy crop.