How do I protect tomatoes from pests?

Daily observation is the foundation for protecting tomatoes from pest problems. Detecting pests early will stop an infestation before it spreads. I check the undersides of leaves every day. Most aphids will cluster there. Also, the big green hornworm prefers to stay tucked in near the stems of tomato plants. Less pest-specific solutions, particularly organic methods, work better than chemical ones to avoid harming pollinators or damaging soil health.

Neem oil is most effective and can be used with dish soap, at the rate of 1 tbsp each per gallon of water. I use it at dawn because that is when the pests are actively feeding. If applying on hornworms, sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the stems. That will cause the hornworms' bodies to be pierced without harming the beneficial earthworms.

Consistency outweighs crises. Last year, I had three days with no checks, and hornworms ruined six plants. So I set my phone to remind me. Healthy tomatoes have shiny leaves and thick stems. Weak growth leads to more pest infestations and I recommend fertilizing every crushed-up bit of weak growth with 5-10-10 mixes to promote every plant's defense response.

Read the full article: How to Grow Tomatoes: Complete Beginner's Guide