How to Root Tomato Plant Cuttings

Tomatoes are a popular garden crop, and many gardeners choose to propagate their plants by taking cuttings. Rooting tomato cuttings can be a bit tricky, but with the right care and technique, it is possible to grow new tomato plants from cuttings.

What You Will Need:

Before you begin, gather the following supplies:

Sharp scissors or shears

A container of water

A rooting hormone powder

A pot filled with a well-draining soil mix

A clear plastic bag

A sunny windowsill or grow light

Step 1: Take the Cuttings

Select a healthy tomato plant and look for a branch with several leaves. Using sharp scissors or shears, cut the stem at a 45-degree angle, taking a cutting that is at least 4 inches long.

Step 2: Prepare the Cuttings

Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving just a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder, covering the end completely.

Step 3: Place the Cuttings in Water

Fill a container with water and place the cuttings in the water so that the cut end is submerged. Place the container in a bright, warm location, but not in direct sunlight.

Step 4: Wait for the Cuttings to Root

After a few days, roots should begin to form on the cuttings. Check the water daily and change it as needed to keep it fresh.

Step 5: Plant the Cuttings

Once the roots are at least an inch long, carefully remove the cuttings from the water and plant them in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Water the soil lightly, then cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a sunny windowsill or under a grow light.

Step 6: Care for the New Plants

As the new plants grow, water them regularly and provide them with plenty of light. When they are at least 6 inches tall, transplant them into larger pots or into the garden.

Rooting tomato plant cuttings can be a bit challenging, but with patience and care, you can successfully grow new tomato plants from cuttings. Remember to keep the cuttings in a warm, bright location and to change the water regularly. With time and proper care, you'll have healthy, thriving tomato plants in no time.