[DD.]

I'm going to nip mine when I get home. I'm really glad I read this since it turns out the sideshoots are the bits I thought were going to flower. Sounds like I'd have been waiting a while  :roll:  

If the side shots are quite long, 4-5" say, they should snap off. Stick them in a 3" pot of compost & you'll have more tomato plants, (if you want them).

[sclarke624]

This question confused me as well about 6 weeks ago, (found the answer from a friend).  

I think its confusing because, I for one, would think that the bit that branches out from the main stem would be a side shoot and therefore the side shoot in question to pinch out, but of course its not.

Don't you think a more appropriate name for the 'sideshoots' would be the 'inbetweeny shoots' or the 'inbetweeny main and branch shoot'.

[helluvatractor]

on a similar tomato theme. i just wondered what peoples views are on removing the big leaves on the plant.  i've got a couple gardeners delights. planted in the greenhouse border early.  one i have left all but the lower yellower leaves on and one i've been quite brutal and removed a lot of them.  i've noticed that on the one i've been more brutal with some of the lower fruits are staring to ripen already, i guess because the sun has been able penetrate the foliage and shine on them.

Is there any drawbacks to removing so much leafage and can you damage the plant being too overzealous?  

[percy thrower's cat]

i read in one of the ads on the moon planting link that a tomato can survive and indeed thrive on just 3 leaves! having so few leaves allows air to circulate and reduces the risk of fungal diseases. it kind of makes sense but is maybe a little severe for me, maybe 6 leaves instead!

[helluvatractor]

cheers, thats worth knowing, but like you i think thats a bit too severe for me, but good to know i havent damaged the plant i got a bit carried away on.

[percy thrower's cat]

call it an experiment, let us know the results.

[Sally A]

My dad always used to take off about half the leaves to let air circulate, it also makes it easier tying them to the stake cos some of the leaves can be quite large and awkward, it makes it easier to check there are no nasties lurking on your plant too.