What Do Suckers on Tomato Plants Look Like?

Many tomato growers have asked the question, "What do suckers on tomato plants look like?" Suckers are growths that appear on the stem of a tomato plant, typically in the juncture between the stem and a branch. They are often referred to as the "armpits" of the plant. Suckers are a controversial topic in the tomato growing community, and opinions on whether to remove them or not vary widely. In this article, we will focus on what they look like and why they might be removed.

What Do Suckers Look Like?

Suckers on tomato plants usually emerge as thin, green shoots that grow from the axil or the angle between the stem and a branch. They may look like small, harmless branches, but if left untouched, they will eventually grow into full-sized stems that compete with the main stem for nutrients and water. When they grow into larger stems, they are more difficult to remove than when they are small. Mature suckers usually have four leaflets with a node that connects it to the main stem.

Why Remove Suckers?

Removing suckers is a crucial part of pruning tomato plants, especially for indeterminate varieties, which grow taller and produce more fruit continuously. By removing the suckers, the plants will put more energy into growing the main stem and producing fruit. If allowed to grow, the suckers will also shade the lower parts of the plant, reducing the amount of light that reaches the fruiting branches. Furthermore, too many stems and branches will create a dense canopy, which can increase the risk of diseases such as blight.

How to Remove Suckers?

If you choose to remove suckers, it is essential to do it properly to avoid damaging the plant. The best time to remove suckers is when they are small, about 2 to 4 inches long. Use a sharp, clean pair of pruning shears, and cut the sucker off as close to the main stem as possible. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plant or cutting off the wrong parts. It is also important not to remove too many suckers at once as this can shock the plant and reduce its productivity. A good rule of thumb is to remove one or two suckers per week.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, suckers are growths that emerge from the axil between the stem and a branch on tomato plants. They can rob the plant of nutrients and shade the lower branches, reducing the yield of the plant. Removing suckers is a critical part of pruning tomato plants, especially for indeterminate varieties. When removing suckers, be sure to do it properly at the right time to avoid damaging the plant.