Newbie needing some advice on spindly Tomato plants.

[seshler.stone.]

So i have two tomato plants, which i was given at about 3 inches tall.
they have grown exponentially, and do have quite a few branches with vines and flowers on. my problem is the stems seem really quite thin and they have gotten exceptionally tall.

So my question is a guess. is there any thing i can do to thicken the main stalk, and would it be wise to take the top off.

I have read that topping is good on occasion to boost fruit growth.

Just don't want to mess them up, because they are going to produce fruit. how much i'm unsure.

Apologies if this is written in any sort of wrong format.

Thanks.

[d.steeley]

Hi, thin tall growth is usually a symptom of low light levels, which could happen if they are growing in a glasshouse/polythene tunnel with dirty glass/polythene. Also, it could be indicative of the plants needing more frequent feeding with a tomato feed such as Tomorite. Tomatoes can have their tops removed usually after 5 or 6 trusses of fruit have appeared. Depending on the variety and type, if cordons, it is a good idea to remove side shoots or too much extra growth can occur leading to spindly, untidy growth.
Click on the link for more info from the RHS.

https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/grow-y...ables/tomatoes

Dave

[seshler.stone.]

Thanks Dave,

Yeah the low light levels could be the main problem. i live in a courtyard so the main sunlight can be limited depending. I will be moving to slightly better place in my garden.
i have recently removed and pruned a lot of the unnecessary side shoots, so ill see if this makes a difference.

Cheers for the input, much appreciated.

Seshler.

[d.steeley]

You're welcome.

Dave

[Kits]

Welcome to Gardener's Forum, Seshler. I see Dave has been able to help. Good luck with your tomatoes.