What are Suckers on a Tomato Plant?

For those who have experience in growing tomatoes, suckers on tomato plants are not new. However, for beginners, these are often a mystery. Tomato suckers are small shoots that grow in the crotches between the main stem and the branches of a tomato plant. They can bear fruits, but they can also harm the growth and productivity of the plant if left unchecked.

Why do Tomato Plants Produce Suckers?

Tomato plants produce suckers for various reasons. One is for survival. When a tomato plant is damaged or pruned, the remaining parts will try to compensate by producing more growth. The suckers are an attempt of the plant to create new avenues for photosynthesis and nutrient absorption.

Another reason why tomato plants produce suckers is for reproduction. Tomato plants are biologically programmed to produce offspring. By producing suckers, the plant creates more opportunities for flower and fruit production, which means more chances of passing on its genes to the next generation.

Are Suckers on Tomato Plants Bad?

The answer is not straightforward. Suckers that grow close to the base of the plant can be harmful because they compete for nutrients and water with the main plant. If left unchecked, they can also grow into large branches that can shade the main stem, reducing its ability to perform photosynthesis.

On the other hand, suckers that grow higher up on the plant can be beneficial as they can increase the overall productivity of the plant. They can also serve as a backup in case some of the main branches are damaged or lost. In some varieties of tomato plants, suckers can also bear fruits that are as good or even better than those on the main branches.

How to Deal with Suckers on Tomato Plants?

The decision to prune or leave suckers on tomato plants depends on the gardener's preference and the plant's growth habit. If a plant has a bushy growth habit, it may produce too many suckers that can harm its productivity, and hence pruning is necessary. However, if a plant has a more open and upright growth habit, removing suckers may not be necessary.

To remove suckers, one can use a clean and sharp knife or pruning shears to cut them off at the base. It is best to do this early in the morning when the plant is less stressed and less prone to diseases. However, it is important not to remove too many suckers at once, as this can shock the plant and reduce its growth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, suckers on tomato plants can be both beneficial and harmful depending on their location and the plant's growth habit. A gardener needs to learn to identify and manage them appropriately to ensure the best growth and productivity of the plant. By doing so, a gardener can have a bountiful harvest of delicious and healthy tomatoes.