Tomatoes are a highly coveted crop and are relatively simple to cultivate. However, despite some varieties being more disease-resistant, blight can pose a significant issue. Blight is a fungal infection that propagates through wind and water splash. The disease typically manifests from June to August, but damp conditions can trigger it.

Outdoor tomatoes are particularly susceptible to blight, especially in warm and wet conditions. The initial signs of blight include brown sunken spots on maturing tomatoes, which can then proliferate to the rest of the plant.

Brown leaves, stems, and a wilting plant are also typical symptoms.

Treating blight can be challenging, hence the importance of preventative measures and regular monitoring of your plants, reports the Express.

House Digest suggests that one of the most effective ways to prevent blight is by applying mulch to your tomato plants.

Mulch can maintain cool root temperatures, prevent them from drying out and inhibit the spread of diseases during watering.

During irrigation, soil-borne pathogens can splash onto the plant, potentially leading to infection. Mulch serves as a protective barrier between the soil and the plant, preventing this from occurring.

There's a wide variety of mulch types, but some of the best options for tomatoes include straw, wood chips, grass clippings and natural alternatives.

Applying mulch around your tomato plants will not only shield them from diseases but also help control troublesome weeds.

When applying mulch, just scatter a layer that's approximately two to three inches thick around each plant.

Other ways to prevent tomato blight

Don't overwater plants

Overwatering tomato plants can result in water splashing on the leaves, which can spread disease.

Space out your plants

If you have multiple tomato plants, ensure they are spaced out so their leaves don't touch. This will keep the plants dry and free from blight.