How to Prune Tomato Plants RHS

Pruning tomato plants is vital to maximize their production potential, encourage strong growth and prevent diseases. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) recommends a few pruning techniques that can help you get the most out of your tomato plants. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about pruning tomatoes to ensure your plants are healthy and productive.

Why Prune Tomato Plants?

Pruning is essential because it encourages the plant to focus its energy on producing fruit rather than developing more foliage. Removing the excess foliage also increases airflow and light penetration, which can reduce the risk of plant diseases and boost the quality and quantity of the fruit produced.

When to Prune Tomato Plants?

It’s important to prune tomato plants regularly to ensure that they don't become overcrowded and that the fruit can ripen evenly. RHS recommends that you start pruning your tomato plants once they reach about 30cm (12 inches) tall. During this time, the plant should have developed its first set of true leaves, and you should be able to spot the first signs of the shoot system.

How to Prune Tomato Plants?

There are two types of pruning that you can do to maximize the production of your tomato plant:

1. Pinching Out Side Shoots

Side shoots, also called sucker shoots, are the small growths that appear between the stem and leaves of your tomato plant. These shoots can sap the energy of your tomato plant, and if left to grow, can overcrowd the plant, reducing airflow and light penetration. To get rid of these shoots, use your thumb and forefinger and pinch them off once they are about 2.5cm (1 inch) long. It's best to do this early in the morning when the plant is turgid.

2. Removing Lower Leaves

As your tomato plants grow taller, the lower leaves will begin to die off, and this is entirely normal. However, if you leave these leaves on the plant, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungal diseases. It's best to remove these leaves regularly as the plant grows from the bottom, leaving at least four healthy leaves at the top of the plant.

Conclusion

Pruning tomato plants is not only essential for the growth and production of your plants but also a simple way to control the spread of diseases, pests and keep your plants healthy. By following these simple pruning tips from the RHS, your tomato plants will be able to produce high-quality, healthy fruit that you can enjoy with your family and friends for many months to come.