Do Grasshoppers Eat Tomato Plants? Yes - Here's How to Stop Them

By James Mitchell · August 24, 2025

Do Grasshoppers Eat Tomato Plants? Yes, They Do

Yes, grasshoppers do eat tomato plants. These common garden pests feed on the leaves, stems, and even fruit of tomato plants, especially during dry, warm seasons when populations surge. Left uncontrolled, grasshopper infestations can cause significant defoliation and yield loss in home gardens and commercial crops.

Why Grasshoppers Target Tomato Plants

Grasshoppers are herbivorous insects with strong mandibles designed for chewing plant material. While they prefer grasses and broadleaf weeds, they readily consume vegetable crops like tomatoes when their preferred food sources are scarce. Several factors make tomato plants vulnerable:

Accessibility: Tomato plants grow low to the ground, making them easy targets.
Leaf Texture: Tender young foliage is especially appealing to nymphs and adults.
Seasonal Timing: Grasshopper populations peak in late summer, coinciding with tomato maturation.
Drought Conditions: Dry weather increases grasshopper survival and reduces natural predators.

Signs of Grasshopper Damage on Tomatoes

Identifying grasshopper feeding early can prevent widespread damage. Look for:

Irregular holes in leaves, often starting at the edges
Skeletonized foliage where only veins remain
Chewed stems or damaged fruit surfaces
Presence of grasshoppers, especially in the morning or evening
Fecal pellets (small dark droppings) near affected plants

Grasshopper Species Commonly Feeding on Tomato Plants

Not all grasshopper species pose equal threats. The following are most frequently observed damaging tomato crops in North America:

Species	Region	Feeding Preference	Damage Level	Active Months
Migratory Grasshopper (Mallophora californica)	Western U.S.	Grasses, vegetables, crops	High	July–September
Two-Striped Grasshopper (Menacanthus bivittatus)	Northern & Central U.S.	Broadleaf plants, tomatoes, beans	Very High	June–October
Carolina Grasshopper (Dissosteira carolina)	Eastern & Central U.S.	Ground cover, occasionally tomatoes	Moderate	July–August
Red-Legged Grasshopper (Podisca americana)	Widespread	Herbaceous plants, vegetables	High	June–September

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that the Two-Striped Grasshopper poses the greatest threat to tomato plants due to its preference for broadleaf crops and extended active season. Regions with prolonged summer heat see higher infestation rates, particularly in drought-prone areas where natural controls are weakened.

Effective Control and Prevention Strategies

Managing grasshoppers requires a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical methods tailored to garden size and infestation level.

Cultural Controls

Tillage: Plow or till soil in fall and spring to destroy egg beds in undisturbed ground.
Trap Crops: Plant oats or corn around tomato beds to lure grasshoppers away.
Row Covers: Use floating row covers to physically block access to young plants.

Biological Controls

Natural Predators: Encourage birds, spiders, and parasitic flies by planting native flowers.
Nosema locustae: A microbial pesticide effective against nymphs; sold as 'Nolo Bait'.

Chemical Options

Use sparingly and only when necessary:

Organic: Neem oil or kaolin clay sprays deter feeding.
Synthetic: Carbaryl (Sevin) or permethrin for severe infestations—follow label instructions carefully.

FAQ About Grasshoppers and Tomato Plants

How can I tell if grasshoppers are eating my tomato plants?

Look for irregular holes in leaves, chewed stems, and visible grasshoppers, especially during warm daylight hours. Unlike caterpillars, grasshoppers leave clean, jagged edges and may jump when disturbed.

Are grasshoppers dangerous to humans or pets?

No, grasshoppers are not dangerous to humans or pets. They do not bite aggressively or carry diseases harmful to people, though they may nibble on fingers if handled.

What time of day are grasshoppers most active?

Grasshoppers are most active during warm, sunny parts of the day—typically mid-morning to late afternoon. This is the best time to scout for them or apply treatments.

Can organic methods control grasshopper infestations?

Yes, organic methods like Nosema locustae bait, neem oil, and encouraging natural predators can be effective, especially when applied early in the nymph stage before wings develop.

Will grasshoppers kill my tomato plants?

Severe infestations can defoliate plants entirely, weakening them and reducing yields. While mature plants may survive partial defoliation, young plants can be killed if left unprotected.