Sparse foliage and color too light

by Sarah Oliver
(Helena, AL, USA)

Q. The foliage on my tomatoes seems sparse and the color too light. But each plant has lots of blooms and several tomatoes. What might be the problem?

A. Several issues could be in play.

• Soil. The area in question may have a nutrient deficiency or be depleted. Nitrogen spurs foliage growth and deeper leaf color. Work compost into the soil. You can also fertilize with a balanced tomato fertilizer like
  Miracle Gro Tomatoes or Tomato Tone.
  
• Water. Too much rain can deplete the soil and lead to lighter foliage color.
  
• Iron. Pale green foilage can mean a lack of iron in the soil.
  
• Sun. Fewer leaves can mean your plants aren't getting enough sun. Tomatoes need 6-8 hours of light a day.