High Soil pH from Over-Liming Causes Iron Deficiency in Tomatoes

Frequent liming to prevent blossom-end rot can raise soil pH so high that tomato plants cannot absorb iron, causing yellowing (chlorosis) on new growth, leaf curling, and stunting. The symptoms appear on multiple varieties from different sources, confirming a soil issue, not a disease.

Test the soil through your local Extension office (georgiasoiltest.com) and follow the recommendations. A teaspoon of lime per plant per year is sufficient for calcium; more disrupts nutrient uptake. Correcting pH restores iron availability and plant health.