Should I Sucker My Tomato Plant?

Tomatoes are a popular and rewarding crop to grow in the garden, but they require regular care and maintenance. One question that often comes up is whether or not to "sucker" tomato plants. Suckering involves removing the side shoots or "suckers" that grow between the main stem and the branches of the plant. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether or not to sucker your tomato plants:

Factors to Consider

Growth and Yields: Some gardeners believe that removing suckers will lead to larger, healthier fruits and higher yields. This is because the plant can put more energy into producing fruit, rather than growing unnecessary shoots. However, other gardeners argue that leaving the suckers may actually increase yields, as they provide additional leaves and branches for photosynthesis.

Stress and Disease: Anytime a plant is wounded or pruned, it experiences some level of stress. This can leave it vulnerable to pests and diseases, especially if the wounds are not properly cared for. However, some gardeners believe that removing suckers can actually reduce the risk of disease by increasing airflow and reducing moisture on the plant.

Plant Support: Tomato plants require a sturdy support system to hold their weight as they grow and produce fruit. Leaving too many suckers can lead to a crowded plant that is difficult to support. On the other hand, removing too many suckers can leave the plant with few leaves and branches to support the fruit.

Sucker Removal Techniques

If you decide to remove suckers from your tomato plants, there are a few different techniques to try:

Pinching: This is the most common technique for removing suckers. Wait until the suckers are 2-4 inches long, then pinch them off using your fingers or a pair of sharp scissors. Pinch the sucker at its base, close to the main stem, to avoid damaging the plant.

Pruning: For larger suckers or dense growth, you may want to use pruning shears to cut them off. Make sure to sterilize your tools with rubbing alcohol before and after pruning to prevent the spread of disease.

Training: If you want to promote a certain shape or growth pattern for your tomato plant, you can use training techniques to direct the plant's growth. For example, you can train the plant to produce a single stem by removing all suckers and tying the main stem to a stake or trellis as it grows.

Conclusion

There are pros and cons to both sucker removal and leaving the suckers on tomato plants. The decision ultimately depends on your personal preferences, the needs of your specific plant, and the growing conditions in your garden. If you are new to tomato gardening, I recommend experimenting with both methods to see which one works best for you. Remember to always care for your plants with patience, attention, and the proper techniques, and your tomato crop will likely reward you with plenty of delicious fruit.