In our current research project, “Strategies for Improving Biological Control of Insect Pests for Vegetable Growers Utilizing High Tunnels”, tomato harvest has slowed down significantly, due in part to a severe raccoon problem. We have trapped almost 20 raccoons in the past three weeks ranging from adults to juveniles. Green fruit in the top of the plants is continuing to size and hopefully the number of furry creatures has decreased enough to allow the last fruit clusters to ripen for harvests into September. The bell pepper crop has been untouched by the raccoons and harvests of large to X-large, blocky firm fruit with thick walls were abundant in August and will continue into September as well. 

The leaf mold on the tomatoes that was discussed in the June issue had been held in check until the last couple of weeks. In the control tunnel, which had higher leaf mold pressure, lower leaves have started turning yellow and brown and drying up as the fungal disease progresses. This is typically the time of year that the leaves start to defoliate from this disease in our tunnels. The couple of fungicide applications that were made after early season symptoms were observed were beneficial in slowing the progression and preventing leaf loss in the middle of summer when a full crop load was present.

Aphids are present in both the treatment and control tunnel but just in small pockets. Tomato hornworms, tomato fruit worms, and army worms have been present as well, but consistent Bt sprays have kept the pressure at low levels. Evidence that broad mites have shown up on peppers in both tunnels can be seen in the photo (photo credit: B. Aly, Illinois Extension 2024).