Pruning Lower Tomato Branches to Prevent Disease

Removing lower tomato branches that touch the ground is a smart practice. It reduces soil-borne diseases like early blight, which splash onto foliage from rain or irrigation.

Best Practices

• Prune off any leaves or stems within 12-18 inches of the soil.
• Use clean, sharp scissors or pinch with fingers.
• Do this early in the season and as needed.
• Mulch around plants with straw or pine straw to further reduce splash.
• Stake or cage plants to keep foliage upright.

This simple step improves air circulation and keeps fruit cleaner, too.