Pruning Tomato Suckers for Higher Yields

Prune Only Suckers, Never the Main Stem

Your father pruned tomatoes for more fruit and less foliage. The correct method: remove suckers—the shoots that emerge between the main stem and leaf axil (where a leaf attaches). If left, each sucker becomes a new stem, diverting energy from fruit production.

Why Prune Suckers?

• Larger individual tomatoes.
• More compact, manageable plants.
• Better air circulation, reducing fungal diseases.
• Easier staking/caging.

How to Prune

When suckers are 2–3 inches long, snap them off with fingers or cut with clean scissors. Do this weekly during active growth. Don't remove the primary growing tip (the top of the main stem).

Fertilizer Caution

High-nitrogen fertilizers (like Miracle-Gro) promote foliage at the expense of fruit. Switch to a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus/potassium formula (e.g., fish emulsion, or a tomato-specific fertilizer at ¾ strength every two weeks).

Reference

For illustrated pruning methods, see: Fine Gardening Tomato Pruning Guide.