Topic: Tomaotes- when to pinch off the main stem?

[Greenfingers Jo]

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?

[Bagpuss74]

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.

[Moggle]

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.

[tim]

It's all there if you look - 3-4 trusses outside, 7-10 inside. Or 20 + if heated.