Why Pick Suckers off Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a popular plant for home gardeners, and many people consider them to be one of the easiest and most rewarding crops to grow. However, there are a few things that gardeners need to know in order to get the most out of their tomato plants. One of the most important things to understand is why it is important to pick suckers off tomato plants.

What are Suckers?

Suckers are the small branches that grow in the V-shaped junction between the stem and a branch on a tomato plant. They are also known as axillary shoots, and they can grow into full-blown branches if they are left untouched. Suckers can compete with the main stem and other branches for nutrients, water, and sunlight. In addition, they can produce fruit that is smaller in size and lower in quality than the fruit produced by the main stem. This is why many gardeners choose to remove suckers from their tomato plants.

Benefits of Picking Suckers off Tomato Plants

There are several benefits to picking suckers off tomato plants. First and foremost, removing suckers helps to ensure that the main stem and primary branches of the tomato plant receive the bulk of the plant's resources. This makes it more likely that the plant will produce larger, higher-quality tomatoes. Additionally, removing suckers can also help to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal infections. This is particularly important in humid climates or during periods of wet weather.

How to Pick Suckers off Tomato Plants

Picking suckers off tomato plants is a simple process that can be done by hand. To remove a sucker, simply grab it close to the base of the plant and gently twist it until it breaks off. Some gardeners prefer to use pruning shears or scissors to remove suckers, but this is not strictly necessary. It is important to note that not all suckers need to be removed. Some gardeners choose to leave one or two suckers on their tomato plants in order to promote a bushier, more robust plant that can support more fruit.

Conclusion

Overall, picking suckers off tomato plants is an important part of tomato plant care that can help to increase yields and improve fruit quality. However, it is important to remember that not all suckers need to be removed, and some gardeners may choose to leave one or two suckers on their plants in order to achieve a specific growth pattern. By understanding the benefits of removing suckers and how to do it properly, gardeners can ensure that their tomato plants produce an abundance of delicious, high-quality fruit.