Tomatoes: how important is it to control black and green flies?

[ddiogyn]

I have been inspecting my toms and squishing any flies i find within them quite frequently, but it is becoming tiresome, especially as the plants are becoming bigger - is it really essential to continue squishing them?

Also i notice the underside of some leaves have very tiny black bugs on them, like little specks of pepper. What are these, and how can i control them?

Thanks!

[rustylady]

You really do need to keep squishing - if you leave them they will multiply like crazy. The little black things could be baby blackfly.

[ddiogyn]

Oh i really hope they're not breeding; i'll be out there forever!

[rustylady]

Like every day, which is the best way to keep on top of the problems!!

[Liza]

Also i notice the underside of some leaves have very tiny black bugs on them, like little specks of pepper. What are these, and how can i control them?

Thanks!

Aphid Poo ?

[Liza]

Babies ?

Squish, I planted Marigolds with my toms (french ones specially smelly ! )
no probs with critters so far.

[Two_Sheds]

Tagetes may prevent whitefly, but they have no effect on aphids. Yes, you need to keep squishing.

Or, if you fancy letting them breed: tell us how you got on....