How to Make a Tomato Plant Cutting

Tomatoes are one of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow in a backyard garden. One way to get started with growing tomatoes is to make a cutting from an existing plant. In this guide, we will go over the steps needed to create a tomato plant cutting to propagate a new plant.

Step 1: Choose the Right Time

The best time to take a cutting from a tomato plant is in the morning, before it gets too hot outside. You want to pick a healthy looking stem that is around 4 to 6 inches long. The stem should have a few leaves attached to it and be free from any disease or pests.

Step 2: Prepare the Cutting

Cleanliness is important when it comes to making a tomato plant cutting. You want to use a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem from the plant. Make sure to cut the stem at an angle to increase the surface area from which the roots will grow.

After you have made the cutting, remove any lower leaves from the stem. You want to leave a few leaves at the top of the stem but remove any others that might be below the soil line. This will help prevent the cutting from rotting while it is rooting.

Step 3: Plant the Cutting

Once you have prepared the cutting, it is time to plant it. Fill a small container with damp, fertile soil. You can use a seed starting mix or a potting soil that is high in organic matter. Make a hole in the soil with your finger and place the cutting in it, burying it about an inch deep. Firmly press the soil around the cuttings to ensure good soil-to-stem contact.

Step 4: Care for the Cutting

The key to successfully propagating a tomato plant from a cutting is to keep the soil consistently moist. You will want to water the cutting regularly, but not so much that the soil becomes waterlogged. You can also use a misting bottle to keep the leaves moist and help prevent them from drying out.

Another important factor in the rooting of a tomato cutting is temperature. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. You can cover the cutting with a clear plastic bag to help retain humidity and warmth. After a few weeks, you should start to see roots growing from the stem. Once the roots are established, you can transplant the cutting into a larger pot or directly into your garden.

Conclusion

Making a tomato plant cutting is an easy and affordable way to start growing your own tomatoes. With just a little bit of knowledge and care, you can turn a single plant into many, adding beauty and nutrition to your garden for months to come.