Should we pinch/prune the suckers of tomatoes?

Removing tomato side shoots, also called suckers, is a way of controlling the plant's shape. Whether to do it depends on the variety, available space and how you support the plant. Not every tomato needs the same pruning.

What is a side shoot?

A side shoot grows in the joint between a leaf stalk and the main stem. It is not a flower bud or a diseased part. If left in place, it can develop leaves, flowers and fruit of its own.

When is removing it useful?

With tall cordon tomatoes, removing unwanted side shoots helps you train the plant along a stake or string. This is especially useful in a crowded greenhouse. Bush tomatoes normally keep their side shoots because these contribute to the crop.

Check cordon plants regularly. Gently pinch out small, soft shoots or use clean, sharp tools. Avoid pulling on the main stem and take care not to remove a flower truss. Large shoots leave larger wounds.

Work carefully

Prune in dry weather and ventilate the greenhouse. Avoid removing a large part of the plant at once. Routine applications of clay or seaweed powder to wounds are unnecessary. Watch for damaged leaves and discolouration; pruning alone does not prevent late blight.

Adapt the method to your garden

You can train a cordon tomato on one or a few supported stems. Where there is more room, you may retain more shoots, allowing for the extra space and support they need. Keep soil moisture reasonably even, mulch where useful and remove low leaves touching the soil without stripping healthy foliage.