When to Pinch Tomato Sprouts

Pinching When Planting

• Pinching away flowers when transplanting tomatoes allows the plant time to establish a good set of roots before expending energy on producing fruit. Pinch back the tips of stems three to four days after planting to encourage branching.

Staked Tomatoes

• Tomatoes trained to a trellis or stake are usually limited to one or two main stems. All other stems are removed. Pinching out suckers and undesirable shoots keeps the plant focusing on the main stems. Pinch suckers off where they meet the plant. Suckers are small shoots that grow at the base of each leaf. Repeat this once or twice a week so that shoots are caught young and easily removed. Remove suckers before they reach 3 inches in length.

Pinching Caged Tomatoes

• Tomatoes grown in cages are usually allowed to grow unrestrained. Prune the plant to three or four main stems when they are established. There is no need to prune or pinch them back again.

Pinching to Encourage Fruit Ripening

• Once tomatoes have produced four sets of flowers, pinching off the top of the plant encourages the plant to concentrate on producing fruit instead of growing taller, according to Barbara Mole of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service. Use your fingers or clean pruning shears to remove the growing tip of the plant.