Curling tomato leaves: A problem that can be solved quickly

It’s not hard to find tomatoes in many gardens. After all, it’s a vegetable that just about everyone grows. Growing tomatoes is also relatively simple, and anyone can do it. A harvest is practically guaranteed. Nevertheless, several issues can arise during the growth and development of the seedlings. These include, for example, curled tomato leaves. This can have several causes. We will focus on these in the following paragraphs and also offer solutions to these problems.

Insufficient watering of tomatoes as the main cause

Tomatoes need to be watered thoroughly. We must do this regularly, keeping in mind that it is ideal to water less frequently but as generously as possible. Watering in the morning is optimal. Tomatoes love evenly moist soil. Dehydration in plants typically leads to the leaves curling up.

The solution is simple

Simply increase watering. It should be particularly thorough during dry periods.

Tomato leaves curling: Photo Radek Štěpán

Normal tomato leaves: Photo Radek Štěpán

Lack of essential nutrients

If a tomato seedling lacks sufficient nutrients, this often manifests as curled leaves. Tomatoes usually lack calcium and magnesium. These elements, along with many others, ensure the stability of the plant’s cell walls. As a result, the seedling develops much better. The situation can be resolved very simply.

The solution lies in supplying these elements

It is necessary to choose the right fertilizer that will provide the tomatoes with the necessary nutrients. Often, purely natural organic material is sufficient; compost is particularly effective.

Tip: How to tell when homemade compost is ready? It’s not difficult.

Temperature stress

Especially in spring and early summer, temperature fluctuations are still noticeable. Nighttime temperatures, in particular, can still drop below 10 degrees Celsius. Excessive heat is also problematic. Water evaporates quickly from the leaves, causing them to dry out.

Shading the plants as a solution

That’s right. Tomato plants usually just need to be shaded enough so that they aren’t exposed to strong, all-day sun. They certainly deserve this care during the hottest part of the day.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about curling tomato leaves

How should you adjust watering when tomato leaves curl?

Just water more generously, often even daily.

What nutrients do tomatoes most commonly lack?

Calcium and magnesium.

When should you shade tomatoes?

Especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Source: Author, Meta

Tomato leaves curling: Featured photo Radek Štěpán