Tomato Leaf Spots: Flea Beetle Damage, Not Disease

Heirloom tomato seedlings in pots have pinpoint spots that enlarge and kill leaf tissue; new leaves clean. Nearby Better Boys unaffected.

Diagnosis: Insect Feeding

Spots show chewing damage—likely flea beetles (tiny black jumping beetles). Not a leaf disease.

Control

• Dust with Sevin (carbaryl) or use insecticidal soap.
• Water at base (soaker hose) to keep leaves dry and reduce disease risk.
• Morning overhead watering only if leaves dry by midday.

Healthy new growth indicates plants will outgrow it.