Vegtable Garden help

[Dusty]

I have a small garden in my back yard. The past two years I have had my tomatoes and cucumbers wither away during the growing season. There must be something wrong with my soil but I don't know how to correct the problem. I added cattle manure last year but the plants still withered and mostly died. Other plants like green peppers and green beans were not affected. Any ideas?

[Quetico]

Is there a Black Walnut tree nearby? If so the roots are putting out a toxin that will kill your tomatoes and some other vegetables. Its most effective on tomatoes. If the tree is near by, the soil is already poisoned and you should just move your garden because its a fight you cant win.

A few other ideas- make sure the soil is moist. When you mow your lawn, spread a layer of grass clippings over the soil. It helps retain moisture and provides a source of slow release organic fertilizer. Send a soil sample to the U of M extension service to have it tested.

[Dusty]

I do have a large black walnut in the yard but the garden is about 100 ft away. I have grown tomatoes and such in the same spot over the years with no problems. I guess I will send a soil sample to the state. I have done the grass clipping idea to hold in moisture and contol weeds. Thanks for your input.

Dan

[Quetico]

Are the tomatoes within 20' of the outer most branches? Realize the root zone on that tree is 1/3 farther out then the outer most branches. Anywhere within this zone is contaminated soil. The exact name of the root toxin escapes me right now. But that toxin has probably made it all the way over to your garden.

I would forget the tomatoes in this area. Move them to containers.

[Dotch]

Juglone I believe is what you're looking for Quetico.

[Dusty]

I am well behond the 20'ft range.

[CMKURT]

Do the vines get a real rubbery & dark green appearance? Also does it happen quickly from when you first notice it? It could by a virus in the soil, possibly Mosaic Virus. If these are the symptoms if I remember correctly you may have to stop planting the cukes & matoes for 1 to 2 years.