When Will Tomato Plants Get True Leaves?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables in the garden, loved for their juicy, flavorful fruit. But when you first start growing tomatoes from seed, it can be hard to know when to expect those little seedlings to start sprouting true leaves. In this article, we'll explore the stages of tomato growth and answer the question: When will tomato plants get true leaves?

Germination

The first stage of tomato growth is germination, which typically takes between 5 and 10 days. During this time, the seed absorbs water and swells, cracking the outer shell and sprouting a root. As the root grows, it pushes the plant upward, breaking through the surface of the soil. At this point, you'll see the first leaves of the tomato plant, called cotyledons. These leaves are actually part of the seed and provide the initial source of nutrients for the young plant.

First True Leaves

Once the cotyledons have emerged from the soil, you can expect to see the first true leaves appear within two weeks. These leaves are the first foliage to grow from the plant itself, rather than the seed. They look different from the cotyledons, with a more distinct shape and texture. The first true leaves are usually small and have only a few lobes, depending on the variety of tomato.

Second Set of Leaves

After the first true leaves, the tomato plant will continue to grow and produce a second set of leaves. These leaves are larger and more fully formed than the first set, with a more recognizable tomato leaf shape. By this point, the plant will also start to develop its trademark fuzzy stem, which helps to protect it from pests and diseases.

Further Growth and Development

After the second set of leaves, the tomato plant will continue to grow and develop. It will produce more leaves, buds, and eventually flowers, which will eventually give way to fruit. As the plant grows, it will need more space, sunlight, water, and nutrients to continue to thrive. Be sure to provide support for your tomato plants as they grow, to keep them from sprawling across the ground.

Conclusion

Tomatoes are a rewarding crop to grow, but it's important to understand the stages of growth to ensure successful germination and plant development. While it can be hard to say exactly when a tomato plant will produce true leaves, you can expect to see them within two weeks of the cotyledons emerging from the soil. From there, the plant will continue to grow and develop, producing the fruit that you'll hopefully be enjoying in your salads and sauces come harvest time.