What Are Tomato Plant Suckers?

Tomatoes are a popular and versatile fruit that can be used in many dishes. While growing tomatoes, you may have heard the term "sucker" being used. In this article, we will look at what tomato plant suckers are and their impact on tomato growth and productivity.

What Are Tomato Plant Suckers?

Tomato plant suckers are the sprouts that grow between the main stem and the branches. They emerge from the axil or joint of the main stem and the branching stem. These suckers are also known as "axillary shoots," "adventitious shoots," or "side shoots."

These suckers can grow into stems, which then produce flowers and fruit. However, these stems also compete with the main stem for nutrients and reduce the overall productivity of the tomato plant. This is because the suckers grow rapidly and produce many leaves, which can shade the lower leaves and prevent them from photosynthesizing. As a result, tomatoes grown with many suckers tend to be smaller and less productive than plants with fewer suckers.

The Importance of Removing Tomato Plant Suckers

To maximize tomato plant productivity and fruit size, it is important to remove suckers as soon as they emerge. The best time to remove suckers is when they are small and tender, about 2-3 inches long. Suckers that grow too big can damage the plants when they are removed.

Removing suckers ensures that the main stem has access to more nutrients and resources, which can result in larger, more flavorful tomatoes. Additionally, removing suckers can help improve air circulation and reduce the risk of diseases such as blight and mildew. Good airflow can also help the leaves dry out quickly after rainfall, reducing the chance of fungal growth.

How to Prune Tomato Plant Suckers

To prune tomato plant suckers, use a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears. Start by inspecting the tomato plant for suckers. They will usually emerge from the axils between the main stem and the side branches.

Once you have identified a sucker, use the scissors to cut it off as close to the main stem as possible. Be careful not to damage the main stem or the side branches. Repeat this process for any other suckers that might have emerged.

It is a good idea to prune suckers regularly throughout the growing season. This will ensure that the tomato plant remains healthy and productive throughout the season.

Conclusion

Tomato plant suckers are sprouts that grow between the main stem and the side branches. While they can produce flowers and fruit, they can also compete with the main stem for nutrients and reduce overall plant productivity. Removing suckers is necessary to maximize tomato plant productivity and fruit size, improve air circulation, and decrease the risk of diseases. Pruning suckers should be done regularly with clean and sharp tools to ensure the health and productivity of your tomato plant.