Tomato plants can be vulnerable to strong winds, which can cause stems to break. If your tomato plant has suffered from a broken stem it can still be saved.
Here is what to do to save a broken tomato plant:
First Step: Assess the Damage
Understanding the type of break will help you decide the best course of action.
- Partial Break: The stem is bent or cracked but still attached.
- Complete Break: The stem is fully severed.
Addressing a Partial Break
If the stem is partially broken, follow these steps:
- Remove heavy fruits near the break to lessen the load on the damaged stem.
- Gently straighten the stem to its original position, being careful not to cause further damage.
- Secure the stem by inserting a stake into the soil and secure the stem with a soft twine. Tie loosely to avoid constricting the stem.
- Create a splint by placing small sticks (a pencil works great) on either side of the break. Tie the splints in place with soft twine, providing extra stability to the broken area.
Addressing a Complete Break
If the stem is completely severed, you’ll need to replant the broken section:
- Remove heavy fruits near the break to lessen the load on the damaged stem.
- Cut the broken end cleanly just below the break with sharp scissors (preferably sterilised).
- Remove lower leaves from the stem, leaving a few at the top.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional but significantly improves chance of recovery).
- Plant the stem in a pot filled with fresh potting soil. Make a hole in the soil and insert the stem. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Gradually expose the plant to outdoor conditions again after it establishes a new root.
Prevent Stem Breaks in Heady Winds
Tie the plant in two places, at the middle of the stem and near the top to avoid mid point breakage. Retie the plant as needed to accommodate the growing plant.
Prune regularly to manage plant size and reduce wind resistance.
Choose a sheltered location if possible, or create windbreaks to protect your plants.
With immediate action you can often save the broken tomato plant and still enjoy a fruitful harvest. Happy gardening!
What you need:
Grafting Film
Bailinks Grafting tape, 3cm. Biodegradable, Stretchable. Great for quick healing, will expand with plant growth. Seals well and allows sunlight.
Plant Stakes
Made of high quality bamboo. Not easy to break, sun-proof and moisture-proof. Will not fade, sturdy and durable. Environmentally friendly dyeing.
Wind Protection
Haxnicks Micromesh Wind Barrier and Plant Protection. Ideal for protecting vegetables.
400x70x70 cm
Rooting Hormone
Clonex - Gel-based rooting hormone. High performance, remain in contact around the stem, sealing the cut tissue and supplying the hormones needed to promote root cell development.
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