Trussing tomatoes: Key to healthier plants and better yield
Trussing tomatoes is not only a technique to support plant growth but also a way to improve fruit quality. Learn why it's worth trussing tomatoes and how to do it effectively.
Trussing tomatoes is a crucial part of their cultivation that brings many benefits. First and foremost, trussed plants are less prone to diseases because the fruits do not touch the ground, reducing the risk of fungal infections. Trussed tomatoes have better access to light, promoting even ripening.
Additionally, trussing tomatoes prevents the plants from breaking under the weight of the fruit or due to heavy rain or strong winds.
When to truss tomatoes?
The optimal time to truss tomatoes is when the plants reach a height of about 12-16 inches or when they start to topple over. However, keep in mind that this timing can vary depending on weather conditions and the growth rate of the plants. It's important not to delay too long, as larger plants may be more challenging to truss.
How to truss tomatoes in the ground?
What to use for trussing tomatoes? To effectively truss tomatoes in the ground, start by choosing the appropriate method—stake, cage, or twine—and prepare the necessary materials such as soft string, fabric strips, or special tomato clips. If you choose a stake, drive it firmly into the ground next to the seedling, then loosely wrap the stem with string and tie it to the stake, leaving some slack for growth.
In the case of a cage, place it around the seedling immediately after planting, and the shoots will naturally lean on the bars. Using twine attached to a support, gently wrap it around the stem as it grows, guiding it upwards.
Regularly check the plants and truss new shoots every few days, ensuring not to damage the stems or leaves. Remember that the supports and ties should be adjusted to the type of tomato—some more lush varieties may require stronger structures.
Avoid using wire or other hard materials that can cut the stems and damage the plants. Make sure to regularly check the condition of the ties and adjust them to the growth of the plants.
Common mistakes when trussing
Several common mistakes can occur when trussing tomatoes. One of them is tying the supports too tightly, which can damage the stems. Another mistake is trussing too late, which makes the process harder and can lead to plant breakage.
To avoid these problems, it's worth regularly checking the ties and adjusting them to the growth of the plants. Remember that trussing is a process that requires patience and attention but results in healthy and abundant crops.
