Can You Plant Tomato Cuttings?

Many gardeners are interested in growing tomatoes from cuttings as a way to save money and produce more plants quickly. But can you actually plant tomato cuttings? The answer is yes, you can, and it's relatively easy to do. However, there are a few things you need to know before you start growing tomatoes from cuttings.

Choosing the Right Tomato Variety

The first step in growing tomatoes from cuttings is to choose the right tomato variety. Look for a variety that is known for its good rooting ability, such as San Marzano or Sweet 100. It's also important to choose a healthy, disease-free plant to take cuttings from. Avoid plants that are already stressed, as they may not root properly.

How to Take Tomato Cuttings

To take tomato cuttings, start by selecting a healthy, non-flowering sucker from the main stem of the tomato plant. A sucker is a new shoot that develops in the crotch between the stem and a branch. Use a sharp, clean pair of scissors or a razor blade to cut the sucker from the main stem. Make sure to take a cutting that is at least 4 inches long and has a couple of leaves attached.

Preparing Tomato Cuttings for Planting

Once you have taken your tomato cuttings, it's time to prepare them for planting. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a pot filled with moist potting soil, making sure the soil is firmly packed around the stem. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or plastic wrap to create a humid environment for the cutting.

Caring for Tomato Cuttings

After planting your tomato cuttings, it's important to care for them properly. Keep the potting soil moist, but not waterlogged, and make sure the cutting gets plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. After a few weeks, your cutting should start to grow new roots and you will see new growth above the soil. Once the cutting has established roots, you can transplant it into a larger container or into your garden.

Conclusion

Planting tomato cuttings is a great way to produce more tomato plants quickly and inexpensively. By choosing the right tomato variety and following the proper steps for taking and rooting cuttings, you can easily grow your own tomato plants from cuttings. With a little care and attention, you'll soon have a bountiful crop of delicious, homegrown tomatoes.