Dealing with 'Sun Vages' on my garden tomatoes - Any advice?

gardeningtomatoesplant caresun damage

Registration:
03.02.2021
Messages: 242

BlackMamba Topic author

01.01.2025 15:06

I've been having a really frustrating time with my tomato plants this year. I think it might be some kind of sun damage, which I've been calling 'sun vages' because it's getting so bad. The leaves are yellowing and the fruit is developing weird, pale spots. I've tried moving them to a slightly shadier spot, but the growth seems to stall anyway. Has anyone else dealt with this specific issue, especially after a sudden change in weather patterns? I'm worried I've overwatered them or maybe the soil pH is off. Any tips on natural treatments would be greatly appreciated.

11 Answers

03.12.2022
Posts: 734

Vasquez_J

11.04.2025 09:25

It sounds like nutrient deficiency, not just sun damage. Yellowing leaves often point to nitrogen or magnesium issues. Try a foliar spray of Epsom salts.

09.10.2023
Posts: 80

ElectricSoul

12.04.2025 08:55

Have you checked the soil drainage? Tomatoes hate 'wet feet.' Even if you feel like you're watering enough, standing water can cause root rot, which mimics yellowing.

05.12.2023
Posts: 436

Faris_C

03.06.2025 20:57

I had this exact problem last year, especially after a heatwave followed by rain. It was actually a fungal issue, not sun damage. Look closely for tiny black spots, especially near the stem. You need to prune the lower leaves and apply a copper fungicide.

27.12.2024
Posts: 1453

Spirit_C

06.06.2025 20:10

Short. Too much shade.

24.10.2022
Posts: 828

Wife_C

23.06.2025 10:43

I think the pH is the real culprit. If the soil is too acidic, the plant can't absorb key nutrients even if they are present. Use a simple soil test kit to confirm. Adjusting the pH is usually the first step before worrying about watering schedules.

23.09.2023
Posts: 1280

SegaDream in response

30.06.2025 23:18

Reply to user 3: @TomatoGuru, I suspect it's not just fungal. The spots are pale and scattered, not concentrated in a specific area. It looks more like blossom end rot, which is usually a calcium uptake issue, often linked to inconsistent watering.

18.12.2021
Posts: 640

Apone_A

10.09.2025 17:46

Try companion planting with basil. It's great for deterring pests and improving overall plant health. Also, make sure you are getting enough potassium, which is vital for fruit development.

25.06.2022
Posts: 1430

Dietrich_C in response

25.12.2025 20:56

Reply to user 5: @GardenerGal, I agree about the pH, but sometimes the issue is simply too much organic matter in the soil, which holds too much moisture and suffocates the roots. Aeration might be needed.

23.08.2025
Posts: 348

DoomGuy

19.01.2026 16:35

The sudden weather changes are tough on tomatoes. A mulch layer of straw or wood chips will help stabilize the soil temperature and moisture levels, preventing those rapid shifts that stress the plants.

26.03.2025
Posts: 1285

Ledward_C

18.02.2026 09:44

Just let them breathe. Give them a little space between the plants so air can circulate. Poor airflow encourages all sorts of diseases.

26.12.2023
Posts: 1012

Crowe_T

05.03.2026 08:13

I found success using neem oil mixed with a little horticultural soap. It acts as both a fungicide and a mild nutrient booster. Apply it in the early morning or late evening to avoid leaf burn.

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