Question

Tomato Leaf   As a veterinarian, I am also an expert on AllExperts.com.

I am growing some heirloom tomato plants from seeds.  They are in small pots growing well, but they have developed spots on the leaves.  They are growing next to store bought Better Boy plants, which do not have this same condition on their leaves.  The spots start as little pinpoints, then they enlarge as the leaf dies from within the spot.  Then they get larger and some have coalesced. New leaves do not have these spots yet.  What could this be and what can I do about it?  I live in Central Alabama

Answer
Louis:
Thank you for your image.  These spots look insect in origin rather than an infectious plant disease.  There is what appears as chewing damage as I see it. My expertise is diseases, however these spots do resemble flea beetle damage. The flea beetles are small black insects that feed on the leaves.  They "hop" from the leaves when disturbed.  Sevin dust should be the ticket! Available at most garden centers and home improvement stores.

To minimize several common leaf diseases on tomatoes and veggies, avoid wetting leaves.  If possible water with soaker hoses or drip tubes.  If you do water from overhead, try to do this early in the day so leaves dry off by mid day.

Regards
Steve