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Topping Tall Tomato Plants Safely

When indeterminate tomatoes hit 7 feet and keep growing, strategic topping controls size without harming fruit.

How to Top

Pinch or snip the main stem just above a leaf node, removing no more than 12 inches at a time.
Do it in morning so cuts dry quickly.
Optional: dab cut with diluted neem oil or cinnamon powder to deter infection.

Better Long-Term: Sucker Pruning

Remove "suckers" (shoots between main stem and leaf) weekly. This directs energy to fruit, improves airflow, and keeps plants manageable. Never top determinate (bush) varieties.

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