Tomatoes

[October]

I have planted quite a few tomatoes out in the beds - some weeks ago. Today a man passed by and commented on how well the plot was doing. I told him we were new to it and would appreciate any advice - he cast his eyes over the tomatoes and said they looked a bit bushy and had we picked out [pricked out?] the side shoots? I vaguely remember doing this when I worked at a tomato nursery in the school holidays [an awful long time ago] but had forgotten and we haven't done it. Is it too late? The plants have tomatoes on and I don't know which are the side shoots anyway? Whad'll I do?

Thanks for any advice.

[rustylady]

They may be bush type tomatoes anyway, can you remember which variety? If they are growing well, with fruit coming, I would leave them to get on with it. If you intend to re-shape them now you will have the hassle of pinching out all side shoots and training the main stem to a cane. In my opinion on open ground you are far better off growing toms as bushes.

[October]

Thanks for that - I will do as you say as I would always rather leave well alone if in doubt! The ones I grew from seed were called Latah, I think - the packet said they were low growing and sprawling which they certainly are - I wouldn't have a clue which were the side shoots on those. The others were some given me by my neighbour - a mixture of Marmande and a small plum variety - she had forgotten the name.

[rustylady]

If described as low growing and sprawling, then they are bush types, so leave them be. The trouble with asking for advice is that you will always get some, and it may not be factual - the old boys round the lotties are a bit traditional and don't seem to consider new varieties and new ways.

[TPeers]

Marmande should have had its side shoots taken out. The idea of pinching out the side shoots is to promote fruit growth and ripening. You could cut out some of the excess growth if the plants are out growing their space or if any of the shoots are fruitless. You would probably need to consider giving the plants the support of a cane as well, regardless of any thinning - especially Marmande which has very heavy trusses which can break an unsupported branch.

To identify a 'side shoot' Look at the base of the plant, decide where the central/original stem is. Follow said stem up to the first set of leaves, in the axcil of the leaves there may be a shoot or stem - this is a side shoot.

Hope this helps

Terry

[Sue]

~October
I grew Latah last year (and am eagerly awaiting fruit this year) and they sprawled everywhere, taking up most of a metre square bed. I didn't do any training except keep sticking in canes to prop another bit up but the fruit was incredible, loads of tomatoes right through till October.
best wishes
Sue

[October]

Thanks Sue and Terry. I think only a couple of plants are Marmande - all plants have canes beside them in case they need them. I will inspect the Marmande ones tomorrow, but don't know if I will dare chop any bits off! I will tie them up though - think one is done already.

Yes, the old boy who stopped is about 100 I should think - but very kind and helpful. Our plot is very near the main gate - useful for loo, office and shop, but always someone passing.