Cat-Facing Disorder in Tomatoes: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Introduction

For gardeners and farmers alike, the sight of a malformed tomato with deep cavities and scarred flesh is troubling. Known as cat-facing, this deformity affects tomatoes and results in fruit with irregular, scarred, and sometimes exposed locules, mostly near the blossom end. Named for its resemblance to a cat’s face, cat-facing is a physiological disorder rather than a disease. Here, we’ll explore the possible causes, symptoms, and management practices to help mitigate this common tomato deformity.

---

What is Cat-Facing Disorder?

Cat-facing disorder is characterized by severe malformation of tomato fruits, particularly at the blossom end. The affected tomatoes often develop pits, scars, and cavities that disrupt the fruit’s smooth surface. Concentric and radial cracks may develop, where concentric cracking involves circular scars around the stem end, while radial cracks spread outward from the same point. The issue originates during the tomato plant’s flowering and early fruit development stages, when environmental stresses or mechanical damage to the flower can interfere with normal fruit growth.

---

What Causes Cat-Facing Disorder?

While the exact cause remains unclear, cat-facing disorder appears to be triggered by various environmental factors, particularly those influencing the plant during flowering. The following conditions have been associated with cat-facing:

1. Temperature Extremes
   • Cold Weather: Cat-facing commonly occurs when nighttime temperatures drop below 12°C (54°F) during the flowering period. Additionally, extended cool spells below 16°C (60°F) during the weeks leading up to blooming can hinder proper pollination, resulting in deformities.
   • Temperature Fluctuations: Wide swings between day and night temperatures can also contribute to the disorder, stressing the developing fruit and causing irregular growth.
2. Rapid Growth Spurts
   • When tomatoes experience periods of rapid growth due to sudden high temperatures combined with excess moisture, the fruits can become distorted and develop cracks.
3. Moisture Variability
   • A dry period followed by heavy rainfall or sudden irrigation can lead to uneven fruit development and cat-facing. Excessive soil moisture can cause the fruit to grow too quickly, resulting in cracking and abnormal shapes.
4. High Nitrogen Levels
   • Over-fertilization with nitrogen-rich fertilizers promotes lush foliage at the expense of fruit quality. Excess nitrogen can interfere with normal flowering and pollination processes, leading to malformed fruit.
5. Herbicide Exposure
   • Tomatoes are sensitive to herbicides, especially hormone-based varieties. Herbicide drift or accidental application can damage developing blossoms and cause cat-facing.
6. Nutritional Deficiencies and Over-Pruning
   • Poor soil nutrition, especially a lack of essential micronutrients, can interfere with healthy fruit development. Over-pruning can also shock the plant, potentially impacting fruit formation.
7. Physical and Pest Damage
   • Physical disturbances to the blossom can disrupt normal fruit growth. Additionally, pests like thrips, tiny insects with fringed wings, can damage the blossoms and contribute to cat-facing.

---

Managing Cat-Facing Disorder

Though cat-facing disorder cannot be fully eliminated, careful management of environmental and cultural practices can reduce its occurrence. Here are some steps to take:

1. Select Resistant Varieties
   • Certain tomato varieties are more resistant to cat-facing. Consider planting these varieties, especially in regions prone to the conditions associated with this disorder.
2. Irrigation Management
   • Avoid both overwatering and underwatering. Use drip irrigation or other methods to maintain consistent soil moisture. Well-draining soil can help prevent excess moisture from causing rapid growth and fruit splitting.
3. Temperature Control
   • If possible, protect plants from extreme temperature fluctuations by using row covers or placing them in a sheltered location. In greenhouses, regulate temperature and humidity to maintain a stable environment.
4. Herbicide Caution
   • Avoid applying hormonal herbicides near tomato plants, and be mindful of potential drift from nearby fields. Keep an appropriate distance from sprayed areas.
5. Balanced Fertilization
   • Use fertilizers with balanced nutrient levels, and avoid excessive nitrogen application. Regular soil testing can help determine specific nutrient needs, allowing for a more targeted fertilization plan.
6. Proper Pruning Practices
   • Limit pruning to avoid shocking the plant. Prune only as needed to improve airflow and sunlight penetration but avoid excessive foliage removal, especially during flowering.
7. Pest Management
   • Thrips and other pests can contribute to blossom damage, so implement effective pest control strategies. Regular monitoring and the use of organic insecticides can help manage these small but impactful insects.
8. Prevent Physical Damage
   • When handling tomato plants, be cautious to avoid damaging blossoms. Support tomato plants with stakes or cages to prevent them from bending or breaking.

---

Conclusion

Cat-facing disorder can be a frustrating issue for tomato growers, but by understanding the contributing factors and managing the growing conditions carefully, you can reduce its occurrence. A stable environment, along with attentive watering, fertilization, and pest management, can help you achieve healthier and more visually appealing tomatoes. Embrace these practices to minimize cat-facing and enjoy a fruitful tomato harvest.