What To Know
- This guide will walk you through the process of how to grow tree tomato from cutting, from selecting the right cutting to nurturing it into a thriving plant.
- The first step in growing tree tomato from cutting is selecting a healthy, vigorous cutting from a mature parent plant.
- Use a pencil or your finger to make a hole in the rooting medium, deep enough to accommodate the cutting.
The tree tomato, also known as tamarillo, is a tropical fruit with a tangy, slightly acidic flavor that can be enjoyed in salads, salsas, jams, and even juices. While you can start tree tomatoes from seeds, propagating them from cuttings is a faster and more reliable method, ensuring that you inherit the exact characteristics of your parent plant. This guide will walk you through the process of how to grow tree tomato from cutting, from selecting the right cutting to nurturing it into a thriving plant.
Choosing the Right Cutting
The first step in growing tree tomato from cutting is selecting a healthy, vigorous cutting from a mature parent plant. Look for a stem that is about 6-8 inches long, with at least two sets of leaves. The ideal cutting should be taken from the current season‘s growth, as it will be more likely to root successfully.
Here’s what to look for in a good cutting:
- No signs of disease or pests: Avoid cuttings with any discoloration, spots, or insect infestations.
- Healthy leaves: Choose a cutting with vibrant, green leaves that are free from damage.
- Woody stem: The stem should be firm and woody, not soft or brittle.
- Active growth: Look for a cutting that is actively growing, with new buds or leaves developing.
Preparing the Cutting for Propagation
Once you’ve chosen a suitable cutting, it’s time to prepare it for root development. This involves removing the bottom leaves and making a clean cut at the base of the stem.
Here’s how to prepare your cutting:
1. Remove the bottom leaves: Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to remove the leaves from the bottom 2-3 inches of the stem.
2. Make a clean cut: At the base of the cutting, make a diagonal cut just below a node (the point where leaves or branches emerge). This will help to promote root growth.
3. Dip in rooting hormone: Dip the cut end of the cutting in a rooting hormone powder or solution. This will stimulate root development and increase the chances of success.
Choosing the Right Rooting Medium
The rooting medium you choose will play a crucial role in the success of your tree tomato cutting. It needs to be well-draining, airy, and provide adequate moisture retention.
Here are some popular options for rooting tree tomato cuttings:
- Perlite: This lightweight, porous material provides excellent drainage and aeration.
- Vermiculite: This mineral-based medium holds moisture well and provides good drainage.
- Coco coir: Made from coconut husks, coco coir is a sustainable and environmentally friendly option that retains moisture and promotes root growth.
- Potting mix: A good quality potting mix can also be used, but ensure it is well-draining and contains perlite or vermiculite for aeration.
Rooting Your Cutting
With your prepared cutting and chosen rooting medium, you’re ready to start the rooting process.
Here’s how to root your tree tomato cutting:
1. Fill a pot or container: Choose a pot or container that is about 4-6 inches in diameter. Fill it with your chosen rooting medium.
2. Make a hole: Use a pencil or your finger to make a hole in the rooting medium, deep enough to accommodate the cutting.
3. Insert the cutting: Gently insert the prepared cutting into the hole, ensuring that the cut end is fully submerged in the rooting medium.
4. Water thoroughly: Water the rooting medium thoroughly to ensure it is moist but not soggy.
5. Create a humid environment: Place a plastic bag or clear dome over the pot to create a humid environment. This will help to retain moisture and encourage root development.
6. Provide indirect light: Place the pot in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight.
Caring for Your Rooted Cutting
Once your tree tomato cutting has rooted, it’s time to transition it to a larger pot and continue its growth journey.
Here’s how to care for your rooted cutting:
- Gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions: After a few weeks, start to gradually acclimate your rooted cutting to outdoor conditions by removing the plastic bag or dome for short periods each day.
- Repot into a larger pot: Once the roots have filled the original container, repot the cutting into a larger pot with fresh potting mix.
- Water regularly: Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilize regularly: Feed your tree tomato plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
- Prune as needed: Prune your tree tomato plant to encourage branching and maintain its shape.
Transplanting Your Tree Tomato
Once your tree tomato plant has established itself in its larger pot, you can transplant it into the garden.
Here’s how to transplant your tree tomato:
- Choose a sunny location: Tree tomatoes thrive in full sun, so choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Prepare the soil: Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
- Dig a hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of your tree tomato plant.
- Gently remove the plant: Carefully remove the plant from its pot, being careful not to disturb the root ball.
- Plant in the hole: Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
- Backfill with soil: Fill the hole with soil, gently pressing it down around the roots.
- Water thoroughly: Water the plant deeply to settle the soil and help it establish itself.
Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor
With proper care and attention, your tree tomato plant will start to produce fruit within a year or two. The fruits will ripen over a few weeks, turning from green to red or orange. You can enjoy the fruits fresh, or use them in a variety of recipes.
A Final Word: Beyond the Cutting
Growing tree tomato from cutting is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Remember to provide your plant with the right conditions, care, and attention, and it will reward you with a bountiful harvest.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I grow tree tomato from cuttings in colder climates?
A: While tree tomatoes are tropical plants, you can grow them in colder climates by bringing them indoors during the winter months.
Q: How long does it take for a tree tomato cutting to root?
A: It usually takes 4-6 weeks for a tree tomato cutting to root, but this can vary depending on the environment and rooting method.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect tree tomatoes?
A: Tree tomatoes can be susceptible to pests like aphids, whiteflies, and mites, and diseases like leaf spot and powdery mildew. Keep an eye out for these problems and treat them promptly.
Q: How do I know when my tree tomato is ready to harvest?
A: Tree tomato fruits are ready for harvest when they turn from green to red or orange. They can also be harvested slightly earlier if you prefer a tangier flavor.
