Can You Super Crop Tomato Plants?

Tomatoes are arguably one of the most popular vegetables (or fruits, depending on how you classify them) to grow in your garden. They’re relatively easy to cultivate, and they can be grown in a variety of locations, from large, outdoor gardens to small balconies. One method that some gardeners use to improve tomato plant health and yield is called “super cropping.” But is it possible to super crop tomato plants, and if so, what does the process entail?

What is Super Cropping?

Super cropping is a plant training technique that involves gently bending the stem of a plant until it stresses and breaks. The break itself is not the goal, but rather the resulting injury, which causes the plant to effectively “repair” itself by sending nutrients to the damaged area. This, in turn, stimulates growth and can increase yields. The idea behind super cropping is to create “knuckles” along the stem, which make the plant stronger and more resistant to environmental stressors.

Can You Super Crop Tomato Plants?

The short answer is yes, you can super crop tomato plants. However, because tomatoes are relatively fragile, the process requires some finesse. Here’s what you need to do:

Choose the right time: Super cropping is best done during the vegetative stage of tomato growth, before the plant has started to flower. This usually occurs within the first few weeks of planting.

Choose the right stem: Look for a stem that is strong and healthy but not too thick. Avoid stems that are already woody, as they will be less pliable and more likely to snap.

Choose the right spot: You want to super crop the stem in a spot where it will form a knuckle, which is usually about halfway up the stem.

Bend and twist: Using your fingers, gently bend and twist the stem until you hear a slight “pop.” This indicates that the stem has been broken, but not completely severed.

Support the plant: After you’ve super cropped the stem, make sure to support the plant with a stake or tie, as it will now be weaker and more susceptible to wind damage.

Benefits of Super Cropping Tomato Plants

There are several benefits to super cropping tomato plants. For one, it can increase yields by stimulating growth and encouraging the plant to produce more flowers and fruit. Additionally, it can make the plant more resistant to environmental stressors, such as wind or pests, by creating strong knuckles along the stem. Super cropping can also help to manage plant height and promote more even growth throughout the plant.

Conclusion

Super cropping is a plant training technique that can be used on tomato plants to increase yields and promote stronger, healthier growth. By gently bending and twisting the stem, you can create “knuckles” along the stem, which make the plant more resistant to stressors and can improve overall plant health. When done correctly, super cropping can be a valuable tool for any tomato gardener looking to increase yields and improve plant performance.