Tomato gardening is a beloved pastime for many, offering the joy of nurturing plants and the reward of fresh, homegrown produce.
One common practice among tomato gardeners is the removal of tomato suckers—the small shoots that grow between the main stem and branches. While this technique is widely accepted, it’s time to reconsider whether it’s truly necessary.
Let’s explore why letting suckers grow might lead to healthier plants and greater yields.
🍅 1️⃣ What Are Tomato Suckers?
Tomato suckers are small shoots that appear at the junction between a leaf and the main stem.
Common on indeterminate tomato varieties, which keep growing all season.
If left alone, suckers can become full branches with leaves, flowers, and fruit.
Though often viewed as a nuisance, they’re actually a natural part of tomato plant growth.
🌿 2️⃣ Why Gardeners Traditionally Remove Suckers
Traditionally, gardeners remove suckers to:
✔ Focus the plant’s energy on larger fruit
✔ Improve air circulation to reduce diseases like blight
✔ Make harvesting easier by reducing bushiness
⚠️ 3️⃣ Why Removing Suckers Might Not Be Necessary
Recent gardening research suggests removing suckers may not be as beneficial as once believed:
More foliage = more photosynthesis and overall plant strength
Removing suckers can stress the plant and create wounds vulnerable to pests and disease
In some cases, pruning can reduce overall yield
🍅 4️⃣ How Suckers Benefit Tomato Plants
✔ Increased Yield — Each sucker can grow into a fruit-producing branch
✔ Natural Sun Protection — Helps prevent sunscald on fruit
✔ Moisture Retention — More leaves = more shade, helping retain soil moisture
🌱 5️⃣ Encouraging Natural Growth for Healthier Plants
Allowing suckers to grow can lead to:
✔ Bushier, stronger plants
✔ Better resistance to wind and heavy rain
✔ More biodiversity, attracting helpful insects
✔ A gardening style that aligns with organic, low-intervention principles
🍅 6️⃣ Suckers = More Tomatoes!
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