Why Do You Bury Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are some of the most popular vegetables in the world due to their versatility, nutritional value, and delicious taste. However, growing tomatoes successfully requires some knowledge and skills, including the proper planting technique. One of the commonly recommended practices is burying tomato plants, which has several benefits that translate to a more abundant harvest and healthy plants. In this article, we will delve deeper into the reasons why you should bury tomato plants and how to do it effectively.

What is burying tomato plants?

Burying tomato plants, also known as trenching, is a planting technique that involves digging a trench, laying the tomato plant sideways inside the trench, and covering a portion of the stem and roots with soil. Essentially, you are planting the tomato plant horizontally rather than vertically. The purpose of this technique is to encourage the plant to grow more roots and a stronger stem, which supports better overall plant development and yields.

Why should you bury tomato plants?

Burying tomato plants has numerous benefits, including:

1. Improved root system

Tomatoes are heavy feeders and require a well-developed root system to access nutrients and moisture in the soil. By burying the plant horizontally, you create an environment where the stem can form additional roots along its buried length, promoting a more robust and extensive root system. This enhances the plant's capacity to absorb nutrients and water, leading to stronger growth and higher yields.

2. Stronger stem

Tomato plants are susceptible to wind and other environmental stressors that can cause the plant to flop over and damage the stem. By burying the plant deeper into the soil, you support the growth of a thicker and stronger stem, which helps to keep the plant upright and provides better support for the fruit.

3. Disease prevention

Burying tomato plants can help prevent soil-borne diseases that infect the plant's lower stem, including bacterial wilt and fusarium wilt. By planting the tomato horizontally, you keep the susceptible portion of the stem and leaves buried underground, away from harmful bacteria and fungi.

4. Improved fruit quality

Burying tomato plants can lead to better fruit quality, including larger and fuller fruits that ripen evenly. This is because the improved root system and stronger stem support the plant's nutrient uptake, allowing it to produce more and larger fruits.

How to bury tomato plants effectively

To bury tomato plants effectively, follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose the right planting location

Tomatoes require full sun exposure and well-drained, fertile soil. Choose a planting location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight and amend the soil with compost or manure to improve its fertility and drainage.

Step 2: Dig a trench

Using a shovel or hoe, dig a trench that is deep enough to accommodate the entire length of the tomato plant when laid sideways. The trench should be about 6-8 inches deep and 6-8 inches wide.

Step 3: Prepare the tomato plant

Remove any leaves or branches from the lower one-third of the tomato plant, leaving only the top portion with leaves and flowers. Gently loosen the roots to encourage growth and ensure that the plant is healthy and disease-free.

Step 4: Lay the tomato plant in the trench

Carefully lay the tomato plant sideways in the trench, ensuring that the top portion sticks out of the soil. Cover the plant with a couple of inches of soil, leaving the top portion exposed.

Step 5: Water and mulch

Water the plant thoroughly and apply a layer of mulch around it to help retain moisture in the soil and regulate soil temperature. Water the plant regularly and fertilize it according to the recommended guidelines.

Conclusion

Tomato plants are a great addition to any home garden, and burying them is an effective technique to encourage stronger growth, better fruit quality, and disease prevention. By following the above steps, you can plant your tomato seedlings properly and enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes. Happy gardening!