Tomato leaves have white narrow random trails, yellowing, and some brown curling edges

by Patrick
(San Antonio, TX)

Q. Tycoon tomato plants, outdoor growing area for fall, hot (95'+) and dry; may be a little aggressive on the watering. Plants where re-potted to larger containers prior to planting and have been fertilized with folar and granular food. Plants have been mulched and are located in a spring planting area of previous tomatoes. They're caged and have been pruned so that no ground contact of leaves exists.

A. Sounds like white flies!

If so, then circular or spiral light-colored designs on leaves are actually strings of whitefly eggs. You can also look for whiteflies’ telltale trail of sticky white dew (called “honeydew”) on leaves, stems, and fruit. Another way to confirm white flies is to shake your tomato plant. If dozens of tiny white or light-colored insects break free, you've got your culprit.

How they affect plants
White flies suck juices from leaves, causing wilting, leaf damage, brown leaves, and stunted growth. If left unchecked, white flies can quickly defoliate your tomato crop.

Ways to combat whiteflies

• Set out yellow sticky traps around plants or sticky stakes in containers to thwart them.
  
• Apply an organic insecticidal soap, such as Safer®.
  
• Apply horticultural oil, like neem oil (Bon-Neem Spray, 1 qt), to control whiteflies.