Can you grow a tomato plant from a cutting?

If you have a tomato plant that is thriving, you may be interested in propagating it to create more plants. One way to do this is to take a cutting from the original plant and grow it into a new plant. But can you really grow a tomato plant from a cutting? The answer is yes, and here's how.

Choosing the right cutting

When choosing a cutting to propagate, it's important to select a healthy stem. Look for a stem that is green and sturdy, but not woody. The ideal cutting is a sucker or a side shoot that has grown out of the main stem of the plant. Cut it off with a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears.

Preparing the cutting

Once you have a cutting, remove any leaves that are close to the bottom of the stem. These leaves can take energy away from the cutting as it tries to root. You can also snip off the top few leaves to encourage the plant to focus on growing roots instead of leaves.

Rooting the cutting

There are a few ways to encourage a cutting to grow roots. One popular method is to dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone, which can be purchased at most garden centers. Another method is to simply place the cut end of the stem into a glass of water and wait for roots to grow.

If using the water method, be sure to change the water regularly so that it doesn't become stagnant. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted into soil.

Transplanting the cutting

When transplanting the cutting, choose a pot that is big enough to accommodate the growing plant. Fill the pot with potting soil and make a small hole in the soil for the cutting. Place the cutting in the hole and gently firm the soil around it. Water the cutting well and place it in a sunny location.

Caring for the new plant

As the new plant grows, it's important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It's also a good idea to prune any side shoots that appear, as these can take energy away from the main stem. Fertilize the plant according to the instructions on the fertilizer package.

With proper care and attention, a tomato plant grown from a cutting can produce just as much fruit as a plant grown from seed. So don't be afraid to give it a try!