The ONE Tomato Growing Hack That Actually Works!

Summary

In this video, the gardener shares a proven method for growing tomatoes with fewer pests, diseases, and a better yield. By using single-stemming and string trellising, tomatoes are grown vertically with careful pruning of suckers, focusing energy on fruit production. The method maximizes space, improves airflow, and reduces plant tangling, resulting in cleaner, healthier vines and better harvests. Viewers are introduced to a special tweak that boosts production by 30-40% in warmer zones, as well as step-by-step instructions for setting up the system. With over 30 years of experience, the gardener emphasizes that this method is reliable and highly effective for both small and large spaces.

Takeaways

• 😀 Single-stemming and string trellising are the key to growing healthy, productive tomatoes with minimal mess and maintenance.
• 😀 Using string for support allows you to grow tomatoes vertically, saving space and creating tidy vines.
• 😀 Removing suckers (the shoots between the stem and leaves) is essential for focusing the plant's energy on fruit production.
• 😀 A well-constructed overhead support system is necessary for string trellising, such as using a simple wooden frame or even a greenhouse rafter.
• 😀 In zones 6-11, you can increase tomato production by 30-40% by tweaking the system to allow the vine to grow beyond its original height.
• 😀 By unhooking the plant and letting it grow further along the string, you can extend the growing season and increase your harvest.
• 😀 Regular maintenance is required, such as checking for and removing new suckers, twisting the main stem around the string, and ensuring airflow through the plant.
• 😀 Using tomato hooks ensures proper vine support and helps avoid snapping the string or causing damage to the plant.
• 😀 Growing tomatoes with this system is healthier because the plant has better airflow, making it less prone to disease and pests.
• 😀 This method saves space and allows for more plants in a smaller area, enabling you to grow multiple varieties or increase your overall yield.

Q & A

What is the main problem with traditional tomato growing methods?

Traditional tomato growing methods often result in tangled vines, yellowing leaves, mildew, pests, and low tomato yields due to insufficient pruning and poor support structures.

What is the single stem method for growing tomatoes?

The single stem method involves growing tomatoes vertically on a string trellis, where the plant's main stem is the only leader, and all side shoots (or 'suckers') are regularly removed to focus energy on fruit production.

Why is it important to remove suckers from the tomato plant?

Removing suckers is crucial because they drain the plant's energy, leading to more branches and leaves without producing fruit. By removing them, the plant's energy is focused on growing the main stem and producing tomatoes.

How does string trellising help with tomato plant health?

String trellising increases airflow around the plant, reducing humidity and the risk of diseases. It also makes it easier to spot problems such as pests or diseases early and improves access to ripe tomatoes for easier harvesting.

What is the 'armpit' of a tomato plant, and why should it be pruned?

The 'armpit' is the junction between the leaf and the main stem of the tomato plant, where suckers grow. Pruning these suckers at the armpit prevents the plant from growing excess branches that do not produce fruit.

How can tomato growers in zones 6 through 11 increase their harvest?

In zones 6 through 11, growers can increase their tomato harvest by using a special tomato hook to lower the plant once it reaches the top of the trellis. This allows the plant to keep growing and producing fruit even after it reaches the trellis height.

What are the benefits of growing tomatoes vertically using string support?

Growing tomatoes vertically using string support saves space, improves airflow, reduces pest hiding spots, and makes harvesting easier. It allows more plants to fit in a smaller space and results in higher yields.

Why is it recommended to cut off the top of the tomato plant in colder zones?

Cutting off the top of the tomato plant in colder zones (like zones 6 and lower) is necessary to ensure the fruit ripens before the frost arrives. Allowing the plant to continue growing past its peak will prevent the fruit from ripening in time.

What type of structure is recommended for setting up the string trellis system?

A simple structure for setting up the string trellis can include a 4x4 post with horizontal 2x4s or 2x3s. The structure should be strong enough to support the weight of the growing tomato vines.

How does using a tomato hook improve the single stem method?

The tomato hook allows growers to lower the plant on the trellis once it reaches the top, extending the growing season. This ensures the plant continues to produce fruit without breaking or crowding, especially in regions with a long growing season.