So that the tomato bushes are pleased with a strong crop of watering and fertilizers are not enough. In early summer, it is especially important to pay attention to the formation of the plant, that is, its pruning. This procedure helps to direct the resources for the ovaries and fruits, and not to the growth of excess greens.
What gives pruning in June
Removing weak shoots and unnecessary leaves, you can improve the ventilation of the bush. This is especially important on hot days. With stagnation of air, ideal conditions for fungi and bacteria are created. Pruning reduces the risk of late blight and other diseases, makes the bush less vulnerable and stronger.
In addition, it helps the plant not to spray strength. If you do not remove the stepsons, then the bush “grows in breadth”, and the fruits remain small. Timely removal of unnecessary growth directs the nutrition exactly where it is more necessary, in the ovary.
Care for neatly formed bushes becomes easier. They are easier to water, processed from pests, feed. You spend less time and get the best result.
How to act correctly
The ideal moment for intervention is the first half of June. By this time, the tomatoes have already been strongly strengthened, they have increased the green mass and are ready for correction. The work begins with the inspection. It is important to make sure that the plant is not sick and strong enough.
Remove the stepsons. These are shoots growing in the sinuses of leaves. Most often they are torn off with their hands, but you can use a secondary coat. If the variety is large -fruited and needs support, you can leave 1-2 strong lateral shoots.
Next, cut the lower leaves regarding the ground. Through them, fungi and bacteria easily enter the plant, especially after watering or rain. Removing the lower tier also opens access to sunlight and accelerates the ripening of the fruit.
Particular attention should be paid to damaged or frozen branches. They only take away resources and interfere with the growth of healthy parts.
The formation of the bush depends on the variety. Indeterminant tomatoes, as a rule, grow into one stem. Determinant can have several, but you always need to maintain a balance. Too magnificent crown will harm the plant.
What is important not to miss
Do not overdo it. If you remove too many leaves, the bush simply will have nothing to breathe, and this will affect the crop. It is permissible to cut a maximum of a third of the green mass at a time. The tools should only be sharp and clean. Dumb scissors tear the stem fabrics, leaving the gate for infection. After trimming, it is advisable to treat the cuts with ash, a special antiseptic, or at least let dry.
The soil should remain moderately wet. Stress after the procedure makes plants more vulnerable.
June is the time of active growing season, so top dressing and good light are especially important.
Pruning in June is not a complex ritual, but the necessary care. If you approach the matter wisely and without haste, tomatoes will be thanked with juicy, strong and delicious fruits. All that is required is attentiveness, a little patience and a sharp secondary engine.
