Tomato leaves side shoots as compost?

[BumbleB]

I have collected a large sack of tomato leaves and side shoots. Whats the best thing to do with these? Can they hot compost down or can they be used for mulch. Is there a issue with these at all.

I hope someone has some advice for me.

[taff]

Put them on the compost heap. As long as your tomatoes haven't got blight, they'll be fine on there. Not sure about mulching with them, i can't think of a reason why not, unless some of them take root again.
Someone more intelligent than me will be along shortly...

[terrier]

I have collected a large sack of tomato leaves and side shoots. Whats the best thing to do with these? Can they hot compost down or can they be used for mulch. Is there a issue with these at all.

I hope someone has some advice for me.

I usually only have a sack full of plant waste AFTER the toms have finnished for the season, then I dispose of it off site just in case there are any nasties lurking.

[BumbleB]

Thanks for the replies. I have 40 plants and these are the side shoots and lower leaves.

[Matt.]

I usually only have a sack full of plant waste AFTER the toms have finnished for the season, then I dispose of it off site just in case there are any nasties lurking.

I cut the leaves off mid season especially if I'll be away for a week or so. It limits the loss of water through transpiration and gives a greater chance of survival when not being watered. I don't take off all the leaves and keep the top third/quarter untouched to continue growing. The plants still produce fine and I remember reading that the plant can produce happily with the loss of leaves. More sunlight may also help to ripen the fruit? I always nip out the side shoots as well to encourage growth of four or five major trusses.