Can You Plant Tomato Side Shoots?

Tomatoes are a popular crop for gardeners, and for good reason. They are a delicious addition to any meal and can be used in a variety of dishes. One question that often arises among tomato growers is whether or not they can plant tomato side shoots. The short answer is yes, and in this article, we will explore the benefits and process of planting tomato side shoots.

What are tomato side shoots?

Tomato side shoots, also known as suckers, are the small, new growths that appear between the main stem and the branches of a tomato plant. They often emerge near the base of the plant and grow towards the top. If left unchecked, these side shoots can reduce the fruit yield of the tomato plant by diverting energy away from the main stem.

Why plant tomato side shoots?

While allowing tomato side shoots to grow may decrease the overall yield of the plant, planting them separately can actually increase your tomato harvest. This is because side shoots are essentially new tomato plants that can be propagated to produce additional fruit. The younger plants that emerge from the side shoots can be planted and will mature to produce their own fruit, giving you even more tomatoes to enjoy.

How to plant tomato side shoots

Planting tomato side shoots is relatively easy and requires just a few simple steps. First, identify the side shoot that you want to plant. Choose a healthy shoot with a strong stem and plenty of leaves. Cut the shoot from the main plant, leaving a small stump of stem attached.

Next, remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem, leaving just a few at the top. This is where the plant will grow from. Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone to encourage growth.

Finally, plant the side shoot in a small pot filled with potting soil. Water the plant well and place it in a sunny location. Over the next few weeks, be sure to keep the soil moist and watch for signs of growth.

Care for tomato side shoots

Once the tomato side shoots have been planted, caring for them is similar to caring for any other tomato plant. Water the plants regularly, being careful not to overwater. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks to keep the plants healthy and strong.

When the side shoot plants have grown to a sufficient size, they can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground. Be sure to plant them in a location with plenty of sun and well-draining soil.

Conclusion

Planting tomato side shoots is an easy way to increase your tomato harvest and get more out of your tomato plants. With just a few simple steps, you can propagate side shoots to create new tomato plants that will produce delicious fruit. So next time you spot a tomato side shoot on your plant, consider planting it separately and enjoy the benefits of even more fresh, home-grown tomatoes.