Kitchen Garden Forum

I’m aware you are meant to let these (as far as I remember) set 4 trusses then nip out the growing tip. Also meant to nip out any side shoots.

However, with the lack of a tall greenhouse I’ve decided to experiment and allow a couple of side shoots at the top grow with trusses. It’s still 4 trusses but I’m stopping them getting tall.

Has any one tried this and will it work?

I normally let mine grow to nine trusses I have them in a pollytunnel so I have to bend them around to suite the polythene

I normally let mine grow to nine trusses I have them in a pollytunnel so I have to bend them around to suite the polythene

I experiment most years and I also miss side shoots most years, never had any problems, you will be fine(have a look at my latest video for this years efforts)

Wow Robo, obs a leftover thought from a previous era. I shan’t worry about tipping them out now.


Thanks Burnie, where will I find the video?

https://youtu.be/zjlmVS6yCJ0
I post them under the 2024 season begins thread

I,m not sure it really matters what you do. The plant will produce to the best of its energy, whether in height or width. We can all try to be purist but the most satisfied growers will probably be those who make allowances for their individual conditions.
I've always grown my tomatoes close together outdoors due to space shortage so sideshoots are eliminated to prevent plants intruding on their neighbours' space.