Leaf Roll
Return to Physiological Disorders
Leaf roll symptoms include cupping of the lower leaves of tomato plants so that the margins are touching with no leaf discoloration. If plant stress is reduced, leaves with unroll. However, if stress factor persist, leaves further up the plant (and in rare cases the entire plant) with roll. Leaf roll can sometimes resemble symptoms caused by viruses, but it is physiological disorder that is not completely understood. The severity of leaf roll is often attributed to different cultivars. Indeterminate tomato plants bred to produce high yields are considered the most susceptible. Other causes include excessive pruning, excessive soil moisture combined with high air temperatures, and high nitrogen levels. Plant growth, fruit yield, and fruit quality are not generally affected.
Tomato leaf roll, also known as leaf curl.
(Photo: Rachel Rudolph, University of Kentucky)
Management:
- Avoid pruning when temperatures are high and avoid over-pruning.
- Maintain consistent, uniform soil moisture.
- Try maintaining temperatures below 95ºF and consider using shade cloth.
