For some years now, the tomato tuta has become one of the pests that has caused most damage in the plantations of horticulturists dedicated to tomato. Although its effects can be found anywhere in Spain, some of the areas where this pest is most frequently found are the Mediterranean coast, Andalusia or the Balearic Islands..

Precisely in these last two areas, tomato tuta has been particularly present in recent months. There are two main reasons for its expansion. Firstly, due to the evolution of the moth that causes it, which is showing greater resistance to some insecticides. Secondly, because of the milder winters we are experiencing due to climate change, which causes more suitable temperatures for its survival.

What is tomato tuta

Tomato Tuta is a disease caused by a moth that causes damage to the entire plant, hence the disease is also known as "Tuta absoluta".

This moth, when in the form of a small caterpillar, moves around the leaves of the plant, looking for the ideal spot to penetrate them and create galleries in which to feed. It is precisely while feeding that it damages the plant as it weakens it as it produces more and more galleries. As a result, it causes the affected parts to dry out and new flowers and fruits to grow.

Preventive measures

Preventing tomato gout from affecting your crops can be a difficult task. However, there are some tips and tricks that can reduce the likelihood of being affected by this pest.

Crop rotation

Crop rotation is one of the most effective measures for combating tomato leaf spot. At the same time, however, it is one of the most labor-intensive.

The main reason for doing this is that by periodically changing the type of crop to one that is more resistant to this pest, we ensure that the moths do not have food in the next crop cycle. As a result, it is easier to kill the pest in our crops.

Removal of affected parts

One way to combat the pest when it is already present in crops is to eliminate and remove the affected plant parts. For this, periodic observation and monitoring of the crop condition is essential.

In addition, when checking, it is also important to keep in mind that it not only affects the leaf and fruit, but can also be present on the stem.

Strengthening the plant

As with many other pests, tomato tuta mainly affects weaker plants. Thus, the better condition the tomato plants are in, the less likely they are to be attacked.

For this, one way to achieve this and help the crop reach its optimum state is the use of solutions for horticultural fruiting vegetables.

Applying effective insecticides

To complement the above measures and combat those crops where the pest has spread, there is always the option of using insecticides. However, when using them, be sure to apply an effective product against this caterpillar since, as mentioned above, in recent years it has developed some resistance against this type of products.