How to prune potted tomatoes

Time to prune potted tomatoes

Potted cherry tomatoes can be pruned twice a year, usually during the growing season and after the flowering period. Be sure to avoid the rainy season, otherwise it will easily cause the wounds to rot and affect later growth. Pruning potted cherry tomatoes can reduce nutrient consumption and promote high yields.

How to prune potted tomatoes

1. Single stem pruning method

The single-trunk pruning method is used for potted cherry tomatoes. That is, one main trunk is retained on each plant, and all other side branches are cut off or removed. This pruning method can reduce the number of fruits per plant, increase the weight of a single fruit, and make the tomatoes mature early.

2. Double-trunk pruning method

Potted cherry tomatoes are pruned using the double-trunk method. In addition to retaining the main branch, the first side branch growing under the first inflorescence must also be retained. The remaining side branches can all be cut off to encourage the main trunk and the retained side branches to grow together.

3. One and a half stalks

This method is used for potted cherry tomatoes. In addition to the main branch, the first side branch below the first inflorescence is retained. After the side branch has a bunch of fruits, two leaves are left above the bunch and the top is pinched off. The rest of the side branches are removed. One and a half whole branches are suitable for varieties with limited growth.

4. Improved single-stalk pruning

In addition to the main branch, potted cherry tomatoes also need to retain the first side branch below the first inflorescence of the main stem, but do not set fruit. Keep 1-2 leaves on the side branch and then pinch off the top, and remove all other side branches. This method has a higher fruit setting rate and the fruit develops quickly.