How to Propagate Tomato Plants (Using Cuttings)

Step 1: Choose a Healthy Parent Plant

Pick a strong, healthy tomato plant with no signs of disease or pests. Look for a side shoot or “sucker” – this is a small stem that grows between the main stem and a leaf branch.

Step 2: Take a Cutting

Using clean scissors or garden shears, snip off a 4–6 inch sucker. It should have several leaves but no flowers or fruit.

Step 3: Remove Lower Leaves

Strip the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the cutting. Leave a few leaves at the top so it can photosynthesize.

Step 4: Root the Cutting

• Place the cutting in a glass of water. Make sure only the bare stem is submerged, not the leaves. Put it in a warm, bright spot (but not direct sunlight).

Step 5: Wait for Roots to Grow

• Roots should start to grow in 5–10 days.

Step 6: Transplant Your New Plant

Once the cutting has a healthy root system (about 1–2 inches long), transplant it into a larger pot of potting soil or directly into the ground.

Tips for Successful Tomato Propagation 

1. Use Suckers for Best Results
   Suckers root more easily than woody stems and grow quickly into full plants.
   
   

2. Keep Humidity High
   If rooting in soil, cover the cutting with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse effect. Just leave it slightly open for airflow.
   
   

3. Avoid Direct Sun Until Established
   Young cuttings are sensitive. Keep them in bright, indirect light until they’re rooted and stronger.
   
   

4. Don’t Let Cuttings Dry Out
   Whether in water or soil, moisture is key. Dry cuttings won’t root.
   
   

5. Start Early
   Take cuttings in late spring or early summer so the new plants have time to mature before the end of the season.
   
   

6. Label Your Cuttings
   If you’re propagating different tomato varieties, labeling helps keep things organized.

When buying tomato plants, look for ones that already have suckers growing between the main stem and branches. These little shoots are perfect for propagation! Having suckers means you can get multiple plants from one purchase—just snip them off and root them to grow more tomato plants for free. It’s a great way to stretch your garden budget and get a head start on your harvest.  

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