Cultivating Cordon Tomatoes: The Mechanics of Sideshooting Tomatoes
To successfully grow indeterminate (climbing) tomatoes as cordons, meticulous management of lateral growth is essential. This process, known as sideshooting, focuses the plant’s energy into a single main stem, ensuring better airflow, light penetration, and fruit quality.
The Role of the Leaf Axil and Abscission Layer
Sideshoots emerge from the leaf axil—the acute angle situated between the main vertical stem and a horizontal leaf petiole. If left unchecked, these axillary buds develop into substantial branches, transforming the plant into a sprawling bush rather than a controlled vertical column.
The most effective method for removal is manual “snapping” rather than cutting. This technique leverages the plant’s natural anatomy. By gently rocking the shoot between the thumb and forefinger, you trigger a break at the abscission layer. This is a specialised zone of cells at the base of the shoot designed to separate cleanly.
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Disease Prevention and Wound Healing
Utilising the abscission layer is a critical strategy in disease prevention.
• Minimising Surface Area: Snapping creates a clean, minimal wound that the plant can callus over rapidly.
• Avoiding Pathogen Entry: Cutting with secateurs or knives often leaves “stubs” or jagged edges. These necrotic remnants act as entry points for fungal and bacterial pathogens, most notably Botrytis cinerea (grey mould).
• Vector Control: Tools can also act as vectors, spreading viruses or soil-borne diseases from one plant to another if not sterilised between every use.
Maintenance Protocol When Sideshooting Tomatoes
• Frequency: Inspect plants at least once a week. Sideshoots are easiest to remove when they are between 2cm and 5cm in length.
• Timing: Perform sideshooting in the morning on a dry day. This allows the wound to dry and begin the callusing process under sunlight, further reducing the risk of fungal infection.
• Support: As the main stem (the leader) extends, continue to wind it clockwise around your support string or secure it to a bamboo cane using soft garden twine.
By consistently removing these lateral shoots at the abscission layer, you maintain a healthy, manageable plant capable of supporting a heavy crop of ripening fruit.
