Can I Plant a Vivipary Tomato?

If you are a garden enthusiast or a plant lover, you have probably heard of vivipary tomatoes. These types of tomatoes are fascinating because they sprout a baby tomato plant out of the flesh of the fruit. But the big question is, can you plant a vivipary tomato? Let's find out!

What is Vivipary?

Vivipary is a natural phenomenon whereby the seeds germinate or sprout while still attached to the parent plant. In other words, instead of the seed falling off the plant and taking root in the soil, it starts growing while still attached to the plant. Vivipary tomatoes, in particular, have an embryo that grows inside the fruit and sprouts before the tomato is even ripe. This phenomenon is quite rare, but it is gaining popularity because of its uniqueness.

Can You Plant Vivipary Tomatoes?

Yes, you can! In fact, planting vivipary tomatoes has its advantages. The sprouted seedlings will develop roots faster and, therefore, have a better chance of survival once transplanted. The seedlings also tend to be stronger and more resistant to diseases compared to regular tomato seedlings. However, planting vivipary tomatoes requires some level of care since the seeds sprout in the fruit, and it can be difficult to separate the seedlings from the flesh.

How to Plant Vivipary Tomatoes

If you have a vivipary tomato, the first thing you should do is remove the baby plant from the fruit carefully. Use a sharp knife to cut around the plant, making sure not to damage the roots. Next, plant the seedling in a pot filled with moist soil. Ensure that you plant it at the same depth as it was in the fruit. It would be best if you then placed the pot in a warm and sunny location, such as a windowsill or greenhouse, and water it regularly.

Care of Vivipary Tomatoes

Caring for vivipary tomatoes is not much different than caring for regular tomatoes. The plants need plenty of sunlight, water, and nutrients to grow well. Provide the seedling with compost or organic fertilizer to ensure adequate growth. Since vivipary tomatoes tend to grow faster and stronger, they may require staking or support. It would be best if you also controlled pests by removing any diseased leaves or using gentle, organic pesticides.

Conclusion

Planting a vivipary tomato can be exciting and rewarding, especially if you are a lover of gardening. While it may require a little more care and attention than regular tomatoes, the reward of a successful harvest is worth it. So, if you have a vivipary tomato, do not hesitate to plant it and watch it grow into a beautiful tomato plant.