What Part of the Tomato Plant do You Prune?

Pruning tomato plants is an important part of growing healthy and productive plants. Pruning helps to control the growth of the plant, promotes airflow and sunlight penetration, and encourages the plant to produce more fruit. But what part of the tomato plant do you prune?

Pruning Suckers

The main part of the tomato plant that is pruned is the sucker. Suckers are the small shoots that grow in the crotch between the stem and a branch. If left to grow, suckers can take away valuable nutrients and energy from the plant, resulting in a lower yield.

To prune suckers, use a pair of clean pruning shears or scissors to cut the shoot off when it is small and has just started to grow. You should prune suckers as soon as you notice them to avoid damaging the plant.

Pruning Lower Leaves

Another part of the tomato plant that can be pruned is the lower leaves. Pruning the lower leaves helps to improve airflow around the base of the plant, which can help to reduce the chance of disease and pests.

To prune lower leaves, wait until the plant has grown to a height of around 12 inches and remove the first two sets of leaves. This will help to encourage the plant to put more energy into growing a strong stem and producing flowers, rather than into producing leaves.

Pruning the Top of the Plant

In addition to pruning suckers and lower leaves, you can also prune the top of the tomato plant. Pruning the top helps to control the overall height and shape of the plant and encourages the plant to produce more fruit.

To prune the top of the plant, wait until it has grown to the desired height and has produced several flower clusters. Cut off the top of the plant just above the last flower cluster. This will encourage the plant to put more energy into producing fruit on the lower branches.

Conclusion

Pruning is an important part of growing healthy and productive tomato plants. Knowing what part of the tomato plant to prune can help you to control the growth of the plant, promote airflow and sunlight penetration, and encourage the plant to produce more fruit. By pruning suckers, lower leaves, and the top of the plant, you can help to ensure that your tomato plants are healthy and productive.