To Pinch or Not to Pinch?  That is the question.

Their are two schools of thought regarding pinching out growth on your tomato plants.  Their are some that recommend it, and others that don’t.   The thing is,  it is a little bit like which way you put the toilet paper on the holder…each to their own.     I tend to do a bit of both.   When I’m really lazy, and I’ve only got one or two plants in an area, I leave them to their own devices.    However, If I am trying to squeeze more plants in to a smaller area, I will pinch out side growth.   I do also believe that you will get bigger fruit, however not necessary as many, as if you don’t pinch.

So for those of you that wish to pinch…

Step 1: Time to get pinching. Find a tomato plant some where in your garden ( I get randoms everywhere. They must find their way in the compost)

Step 2:  Now, locate the first flower stem to occur along the main stem.  (please note, I  have yet to tie my tomato plants to stake until they start producing flowers.   I believe this allows the plant to develop a strong root system as is has to support its own weight.   I do however, place the stakes in the soil when I transplant the seedlings rather than later, so as not to disturb the root growth.)

Step3:  Locate any side growth that is occurring in the nodes between the leaf and the main stem.

Step 4:  Use your finger and thumb to pinch out the young stem.  Preferably do this in the mornings, and use hands rather than a knife.   Less stress on the wound.

Step 5. Repeat this process to all the new growth occurring below the first flower truss.   The reason for this is to concentrate growth to the fruit rather than putting out new foliage.  (Please note not to pinch out to much foliage, as this also helps protect the fruit from sun burn. )

Step 6: Now tie up the main stem to the stake.   Firstly tie off the string around the stake.

Step 7:  Now tie off around stem.   Not to tight.   Allow some room for the plant to grow.

Now go forth and Pinch!