How to Root Tomato Plants from Cuttings

Growing your own tomatoes from cuttings is an excellent way to ensure you have a bountiful crop each year. The process of rooting tomato plants from cuttings is relatively simple and straightforward, even for novice gardeners. In this article, we will take a look at what you need to do to successfully propagate new tomato plants from cuttings.

Step 1: Choose the Right Tomato Plant

The first thing that you need to do is select the right tomato plant to take cuttings from. Look for a healthy tomato plant that is free from disease, pests, or other issues. The plant should have several lateral branches that are around 4 to 6 inches in length.

Step 2: Take Cuttings

Using a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears, carefully cut the lateral branches from the tomato plant just below a node (the point where new leaves emerge). Cuttings should be around 4 to 6 inches in length and should have several leaves attached.

Step 3: Prepare Cuttings for Planting

Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting into a pot filled with moist potting soil, burying it up to the first set of leaves. Water the cutting well and cover it with a clear plastic bag to keep the humidity high.

Step 4: Provide Adequate Growing Conditions

Place the pot in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Water the cutting regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. After a few weeks, the cutting will start to develop roots and new growth.

Step 5: Transplanting

Once the cutting has developed a healthy root system, it's ready to be transplanted into a larger pot or into your garden. Plant the new tomato plant in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly and fertilize it with a tomato-specific fertilizer to encourage growth and fruit production.

Conclusion

Rooting tomato plants from cuttings is an excellent way to ensure you have a plentiful supply of tomatoes each year. Follow these simple steps, and you'll be enjoying delicious homegrown tomatoes in no time!