I know this topics been done to death but, when do you know to pinch out the main stem ? ???
I am growing Alicante, Tigerella, Gardeners Delight, Tumbling Toms, Marmande and Money Maker.
Most have flowers, side shoots removed and have 2-3 sets of flowersAll have ben reagualrly waterd though withthe rain we've had I've not had to bother much, and fed. ;D
So what do I do next?
Hi Jo,
I've only been growing tomatoes for about 5 years but have found that it is best to pinch out the tops when 4 or 5 trusses have set flower to ensure that crop develops well. Try to feed a couple of times each week as this encourages flowers and then fruits to develop.
Are they in a greenhouse or outdoors?
I think several places (including HDRA) reccomend pinching out after 4 trusses. I think this is so they can all get ripe by the end of summer. However, my outdoor (but sheltered) toms, did up to 6 trusses easily last summer.
Greenhouse toms have a longer season I think, and can do more trusses.
Moggle - not an expert and happy to be corrected if I am wrong.
It's all there if you look - 3-4 trusses outside, 7-10 inside. Or 20 + if heated.