We all love frugal gardening tips. More vegetable plants for free is for me. Today, I will share how I grow new tomato plants for free by rooting tomato cuttings in water.
Our growing season is long in Southern California but even if you don't live as far south as me, try taking a cutting from a newly bought plant as soon as you bring it home. Of course you would need to buy a larger tomato plant than those that come in a six pack for rooting tomato branches.
First, find a branch on your tomato plant that would produce fruit. Do not just pick a leaf stem, they do not seem to work so if you need to trim your tomato plants you could start a cutting then too.
Strip off all the branches at the bottom of the stem about half way down at least. Carefully take a knife and just scrape the sides of the branch on about the bottom inch of the tomato cutting. Place in a glass jar with water in a sunny window. You will see roots in about 7-10 days. Just keep filling the jar with water to the original mark.
When you have plenty of vigorous roots about an inch long, plant either in your garden or in a pot.
Remember to follow my tips on how to plant tomatoes the right way.
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ReplyDeleteGreat idea, I never thought of trying that!
ReplyDeleteThanks for commenting on my little bear Samuel!
Tania