Gardeners are being urged to prune their tomato plants starting next week to maximize fruit size, a common practice supported by horticultural experts. Pruning, specifically removing suckers (the small shoots that grow between the main stem and branches), helps direct the plant's energy into fruit production rather than foliage growth.
According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), pruning indeterminate (cordon) tomato varieties can improve air circulation, reduce disease risk, and lead to larger, earlier-ripening fruits. The optimal time to begin pruning is when plants have established strong stems and the first truss (flower cluster) has set fruit, typically in late spring or early summer.
For best results, gardeners should use clean, sharp secateurs to remove suckers when they are small (about 2-4 cm long). Avoid pruning determinate (bush) tomatoes, as this can reduce yield. Regular watering and feeding with a high-potash fertilizer also support fruit development.
No specific date or study was cited in the original article, but the advice aligns with standard gardening guidelines. Always check local weather conditions, as pruning during wet weather can increase the risk of fungal infections.
