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Re: Blight prevention...?

Blight, like any other fungus infection, cannot be cured--it has to be
prevented by prophylactic action.  Sq foot gardening is a problem in that
tomatoes are planted close together.  Wide spacing for maximum air
circulation goes a long way in preventing any blight, as does a thick layer
of mulch under plants.  And caging or trellising.  Getting plants up into
the air keeps them dry.  Mulch prevents splash ups of pathogens from the
soil to lower plant leaves when the soil is watered or rain falls.  In very
humid climates such as mine, a weekly application of a fungicide is needed.
There organic alternatives to synthetic ones.  I use neem oil, and I spray
weekly.  The premise is to coat plant leaves to create an impenetrable layer
so fungal spores cannot invade and multiply.
Yes, heirloom do not have hybridized blight resistance.  There are a few
varieties that are more resistant or tolerant than others--such as Cherokee
Purple.  But, healthy soil makes for a healthy plant, and healthy plants are
more able to tolerate blight invasions and still mature a decent crop. So
build you soil with compost and manures. Hope this helps.
Doreen Howard

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