Rain showers and high humidity make it easy for bacteria to attack tomato plants, which can be devastating to an unprotected crop. More prevalent in wet seasons, bacterial spot can cause severe damage to the plants, including leaf and fruit spots, which result in reduced yields, defoliation and sun scalded fruit.

Prevention is the key to disease control. Once the disease has started in a field, control is very difficult, especially during wet weather. Here are some tips to prevent bacterial spot:

• Avoid sprinkler irrigation
• Produce plants in sterilized soil
• Avoid fields that have been planted with peppers or tomatoes within one year
• Rotate with a non-host crop
• Remove and discard fall plants, followed by deep tilling

When bacterial speck, spot and blight threaten tomato crops, Actigard^® plant activator provides unprecedented results. Actigard activates the plant’s natural defense system and protects the tomato plant, much like a vaccination. Its systemic movement lets Actigard move through the plant quickly for all-over protection. Additionally, its low use rate and excellent fit in an integrated pest management program make Actigard a great choice for any disease prevention plan. Improved protection with Actigard means a decrease in copper sprays, which can save time and money and reduce resistance concerns.

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