How to Identify the Suckers on a Tomato Plant

Tomato plants are notorious for producing suckers, which can sap valuable resources and ultimately decrease yield. Suckers are branches that emerge from the junction of the main stem and a leaf branch. While some gardeners choose to remove all suckers, others prefer to leave a few to improve airflow and fruit accessibility. Here are some tips for identifying suckers on your tomato plant:

Look for Growth at Leaf Junctions

Suckers will emerge at the junction where a leaf branch meets the main stem of the tomato plant. They will initially appear as small, green shoots that grow at an angle from the main stem. Suckers may also emerge from the base of the plant, but these are typically easier to identify and remove.

Pay Attention to Leaf Size and Shape

Tomato plants typically produce two types of leaves: regular leaves and larger, broader leaves known as "sucker leaves." Sucker leaves are positioned closer to the main stem and can sometimes be mistaken for the main stem itself. Look for leaves that are bigger and rounder than the surrounding leaves on the plant.

Inspect the Plant Regularly

It's important to inspect your tomato plant regularly for new growth and emerging suckers. Check the plant every 1-2 days and prune new suckers as soon as they appear. Waiting too long to remove suckers can result in larger, more established branches that can be more difficult to prune without damaging the plant.

Consider the Variety of Tomato

Not all tomato varieties produce suckers, so it's important to know what type of tomato plant you are working with. Indeterminate varieties, which grow tall and keep producing fruit until the first frost, are prone to producing a lot of suckers. Determinate varieties, which produce a certain amount of fruit and then stop growing, typically produce fewer suckers that are easier to manage.

Conclusion

Identifying and removing suckers on a tomato plant is an important part of maximizing yield and maintaining plant health. By keeping an eye out for growth at leaf junctions, paying attention to leaf size and shape, regularly inspecting the plant, and considering the tomato variety, you can effectively manage suckers on your tomato plant and increase your chances of a bountiful harvest.