Will Cutting Off Lower Leaves Of Tomato Plants Prevent Disease

Question From: Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States
Q: My son and I have a garden with several tomato plants. I want to cut off the lower leaves to help prevent soil born problems, he says it will not make a difference. Any thoughts? Sue

A: Your son is wrong. Cutting off the lower branches will prevent splashing disease spores from infecting the plant. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy