Infected Tomato Plants

Question

I planted two tomato plants in my vegetable garden about 2 months ago. They have been doing really well until recently when the bottom stem and leaves began turning yellow and a white substance is now evident on the dying parts. Is this a fungal disease or pests?

Answer 1

It does sound like a disease. It is likely a blight (there are several) as these tend to move from the bottom of the plant upwards.
 
There is not much you can do for the plant. While the fruit is safe to eat, it is recommended that you remove the infected plants and destroy them to prevent the disease from spreading. You will not be able to plant tomatoes or other nightshade plants there for at least 1 year, as the disease will survive in the soil that long and infect any nightshade plant that is grown there.
 
This article will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/tomato/tomato-diseases.htm