Shoots on Fruiting Plants
Fruiting plants develop both vegetative shoots (leaves and stems) and flowering/fruiting shoots (buds and branches that produce fruit). Here's how to manage each type to get the best results.
🍅 Tomatoes
Tomatoes naturally grow suckers—these are small shoots that grow in the "armpit" between the main stem and a leaf.
Do this:
Remove suckers early if you're growing compact or determinate varieties. This directs the plant’s energy to fruit production.
If you're unsure, remove only the largest suckers, especially ones that crowd the plant or block light.
Keep the top flowering shoots intact—they’re the ones that will bear tomatoes.
Why it matters: Pruning helps airflow and light reach the lower parts of the plant, reducing disease and improving fruit yield.
🍓 Strawberries
Wild strawberries form runners (long shoots trying to spread), especially in longer growth cycles.
Do this:
Cut off runners—they take energy away from fruit production.
Let the central crown grow with its fruiting shoots and leaves.
Why it matters: Removing runners keeps the plant compact and focused on making delicious berries instead of spreading out.
General Fruiting Shoot Tips
Don’t cut flowering branches. They’re your future fruit!
Prune for airflow, not appearance. Only remove what blocks light or crowds other plants.
Use the app to monitor plant growth stages so you know when pruning might help or hurt.
Summary
With fruiting plants, it's all about balance. Keep what flowers, remove what distracts, and gently shape the plant so it can focus on growing what you want to eat. In your Vext garden, a little guidance goes a long way—just a few thoughtful snips can lead to tastier harvests. 🍓🌿🍅