Tomato leaves side shoots as compost?

**taff** · 21-06-2009, 09:51 AM

Put them on the compost heap. As long as your tomatoes haven't got blight, they'll be fine on there. Not sure about mulching with them, i can't think of a reason why not, unless some of them take root again.
Someone more intelligent than me will be along shortly...

**terrier** · 21-06-2009, 10:22 AM

Originally posted by BumbleB View Post

I have collected a large sack of tomato leaves and side shoots. Whats the best thing to do with these? Can they hot compost down or can they be used for mulch. Is there a issue with these at all.

I hope someone has some advice for me.

I usually only have a sack full of plant waste AFTER the toms have finnished for the season, then I dispose of it off site just in case there are any nasties lurking.

**BumbleB** · 21-06-2009, 01:02 PM

Thanks for the replies. I have 40 plants and these are the side shoots and lower leaves.

**Matt.** · 22-06-2009, 01:50 PM

Originally posted by terrier View Post

I usually only have a sack full of plant waste AFTER the toms have finnished for the season, then I dispose of it off site just in case there are any nasties lurking.

I cut the leaves off mid season especially if I'll be away for a week or so. It limits the loss of water through transpiration and gives a greater chance of survival when not being watered. I don't take off all the leaves and keep the top third/quarter untouched to continue growing. The plants still produce fine and I remember reading that the plant can produce happily with the loss of leaves. More sunlight may also help to ripen the fruit? I always nip out the side shoots as well to encourage growth of four or five major trusses.

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Tomato leaves side shoots as compost?

Tomato leaves side shoots as compost?

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