Should I Remove Bottom Leaves from Tomato Plants?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular plants grown in home gardens. They are easy to grow, delicious and provide a good source of vitamins and minerals. One of the most common debates among tomato growers is whether or not to remove the bottom leaves from their plants. There are pros and cons to both sides of the argument, so let's take a look at them.

Removing Bottom Leaves Benefits

The main argument for removing bottom leaves from tomato plants is to promote better air circulation and prevent the spread of diseases. The bottom leaves of a tomato plant are often the first to get infected with fungal diseases like early blight, which can eventually spread to the rest of the plant. By removing these leaves, you can minimize the risk of disease and keep your plant healthy.

Another benefit of removing bottom leaves is to redirect the plant's energy to the top of the plant. Tomato plants are like mini factories, converting sunlight and water into energy that they use to grow and produce fruit. By removing the lower leaves, you're allowing the plant to focus its resources on the upper leaves, flowers and fruits. This results in larger and healthier fruit, which is the ultimate goal of any tomato grower.

Not Removing Bottom Leaves Benefits

On the other hand, some gardeners advocate for leaving the bottom leaves on the plant. One reason for this is that the bottom leaves provide a natural shield for the fruit from sunscald. Sunscald is a condition where the fruit gets sunburned, resulting in discoloration and damage to the fruit. By leaving the bottom leaves on the plant, you're providing shade for the fruit and protecting it from harmful UV rays.

Another reason to leave the bottom leaves is that they can provide important nutrients for the plant. As the leaves photosynthesize and produce energy, they also extract nutrients from the soil. When they die and fall off the plant, these nutrients are returned to the soil, where they can be used by the plant's roots. This can result in healthier and more productive plants in the long run.

Conclusion

So, should you remove the bottom leaves from your tomato plants? There is no right or wrong answer, as both sides have valid arguments. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the conditions of your garden. If you're finding that your plants are getting infected with disease, removing the bottom leaves may be a good option for you. If you're worried about sunscald, however, leaving the leaves on the plant may be the better choice. Whatever you decide, make sure to keep an eye on your plants and adjust as necessary.