Can You Plant Tomato Suckers?

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in a home garden. They are relatively easy to grow and super delicious. If you have grown or even seen a tomato plant, you may have noticed small shoots or suckers that appear in the joint between the main stem and branches. These suckers are often removed to encourage more growth and fruit production, but the question arises: can you plant tomato suckers?

What are Tomato Suckers?

Tomato suckers, also known as side shoots, are the small new branches that grow between the main stem and leaves of a tomato plant. These suckers are usually smaller in size and weaken the plant's growth if left unattended. They usually appear after the first set of leaves have developed and continue to appear throughout the growing season.

Why Remove Tomato Suckers?

Removing tomato suckers is a common practice among tomato growers. The reason behind it is that these suckers become a competition for nutrients and water with the main stem of the plant. Therefore, removing these suckers results in larger fruit and healthier plants. Additionally, removing the suckers opens up the plant for better airflow, which reduces the risk of disease and pests.

Can You Plant Tomato Suckers?

The answer is yes! You can plant tomato suckers in your garden just as you would with a regular tomato plant. The suckers will grow into a new plant, and you will have a fresh start with a new plant. However, keep in mind that planting suckers will result in a lower yield than planting a full-grown tomato plant. If you are in a hurry to grow tomatoes, it is not recommended to plant tomato suckers.

How to Plant Tomato Suckers?

If you have decided to plant tomato suckers, follow these steps:

Identify the healthiest and most vigorous sucker.

Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the sucker.

Plant the sucker in a well-draining soil and water thoroughly.

Provide support for the plant, such as a stake or a cage.

Keep the plant well-watered and fertilized.

Monitor for pests and disease and take appropriate measures to control them.

Conclusion

Planting tomato suckers is a great way to grow more tomato plants and experiment with different varieties. However, keep in mind that planting suckers will give you a slower start and a lower yield. Overall, it is up to you to decide whether to plant tomato suckers or not. Happy gardening!