Garden diseases - Tomato Stem Canker

Tomato stem canker is a fungal disease
Image: U-Scout, University of Florida Plant Pathology Department

Tomato stem canker is caused by the fungus Didymella lycopersici. Spores attack the plants via wounds, causing the stem to rot. Affected plants wilt and die, so it’s important to identify the problem quickly and remove infected plants before the problem can spread. 

What is tomato stem canker?

How to recognise tomato stem canker

Tomato stem canker spreads to surround the whole stem
Image: Ollie Martin/WikiGardener

Tomato plants with canker develop dark brown sunken spots that spread to girdle the stem. Usually found on the lower part of stems, as the disease progresses, secondary cankers will appear higher up. Eventually the plant withers, the fruits shrivel and turn black, and the plant dies. 

How to treat tomato stem canker

Disposing of the entire plant is the only way to treat stem canker
Image: Tobias1900

The best way to treat tomato stem canker is to remove and dispose of the entire plant immediately. Don’t add it to your compost as the fungus can survive for a year in soil and affected plant debris.

How to prevent tomato stem canker

Gardening in the evening can help limit fungal issues
Image: Aleks Kend

Fungal problems tend to be exacerbated by humid conditions, like those found in closely stocked greenhouses. A good preventative measure would be to increase the ventilation by leaving the door and windows open and watering in the evening rather than the morning to reduce humidity.

Careful watering at the base of plants will prevent splashes dispersing spores to other plants. And always buy good quality seeds from a reputable source. Head to our tomatoes hub page for more growing and care information.