Tomato Leaves Turning Brown: Causes and Solutions

When tomato leaves brown and dry up suddenly, the culprits are usually overwatering or over-fertilizing. Both stress the root system, leading to visible leaf damage.

Overwatering Effects

Excess water saturates soil, displacing oxygen and preventing roots from absorbing nutrients. Roots may rot, causing leaves to brown from the bottom up. The fix: water only when the top inch of soil is dry, then water deeply to encourage deep root growth.

Over-fertilization Damage

Too much fertilizer, especially high-nitrogen formulas, burns tender roots. Young seedlings need only ¼-strength fertilizer until established and transplanted outdoors.

Best Practices

• Check soil moisture before watering; stick a finger 2 inches deep.
• Use diluted fertilizer (¼ strength) for seedlings.
• Ensure containers have adequate drainage holes.
• Mulch to maintain consistent moisture.

If caught early, plants often recover once conditions are corrected. Remove severely damaged leaves to prevent disease spread.