Lillian's Yellow Heirloom

Early blight and Septoria leaf spot are common on tomatoes, showing as dark spots on lower leaves that spread upward. Remove and discard affected leaves, improve airflow by pruning only the lower crowded growth, and water at the soil line (not the foliage). If new spots appear, apply a labeled fungicide for tomatoes and repeat according to the label—start early because tomatoes deteriorate quickly once the disease cycle takes hold.

Harvest when the fruit reaches full color for the variety, the skin is smooth and evenly colored, and the tomato yields slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid waiting for the last moment—greenish or firm fruit will ripen more slowly off the plant, and overly mature tomatoes are more likely to split or attract pests. For best flavor, pick in the cool part of the day and leave a short stem attachment.