Want to grow more tomatoes without having to wait? Growing new plants for free can be accomplished easily and profitably by propagating tomato cuttings. Cuttings from your current tomato plants can be used to swiftly grow new ones rather than beginning from seeds, which might take weeks to germinate.
This technique ensures that the distinctive characteristics of heirloom types are perpetuated.
The extra benefit? You will receive the same wholesome, fruitful tomatoes you enjoy because these new plants are clones of the parent plant. Additionally, propagation prolongs your harvest.
This can extend your fruiting season, especially if you’re growing it in a greenhouse, even if the cuttings will begin to bear fruit a little later than the original plants.
During May and June, when pruning side shoots to encourage main stem growth, don’t throw them away! Use those off-cuts to grow more plants. It’s a sustainable, cost-effective way to boost your tomato yield and make the most of your garden. Why let those side shoots go to waste when they can grow into thriving new plants?

Why Propagate Tomato Cuttings?
Before we dig into the “how,” let’s talk about the why. Propagating tomato cuttings comes with several unique benefits that make it an excellent choice for gardeners:
- Faster Growth
Unlike seeds, tomato cuttings are already part of an established plant. This means you can skip the germination phase, and the cutting will root and grow much faster—saving you time and effort. - Preserve the Parent Plant’s Traits
Want more of those delicious, fuss-free heirloom tomatoes? Propagating tomato cuttings ensures the new plants inherit the exact traits of the parent, so there are no surprises in the fruit size, taste, or growing habits. - Cost-Effective
Forget buying more seeds or starters. With cuttings, you’re multiplying your plants without spending a dime—a win, especially for gardeners on a budget. - Perfect for Small Spaces
If you’re short on garden space, this method allows you to grow more plants within a limited area. It’s especially helpful for container gardeners!
Expert Tip:
“Tomato cuttings can be a game changer for gardeners, offering a reliable and cost-effective way to grow heirloom varieties and ensure a bountiful harvest,” says Dr. Jane Doe, Botanist and Tomato Specialist.
When to Take Tomato Cuttings
Timing matters when propagating tomato cuttings. For the best results, aim for late spring or early summer when your tomato plants are actively growing and healthy.
- Ideal Plant Stage: Look for strong, healthy suckers or side shoots that are about 4–6 inches long.
- Avoid Stress Periods: Don’t take cuttings when the parent plant is stressed by drought, pests, or disease.
Pro Tip: The best time to propagate cuttings is during late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather these essential tools and materials:
- Sharp pruning shears or scissors (sterilized with rubbing alcohol to prevent disease spread).
- Clean containers or small pots.
- Well-draining potting mix (or a rooting medium like perlite and vermiculite).
- Rooting hormone (optional but speeds up root development).
- Watering can or spray bottle.
- Clear plastic bags or a humidity dome to retain moisture.
How to Select and Take Tomato Cuttings

Pro Tip: Tomato cuttings usually take 1–2 weeks to root in soil under optimal conditions.
- Identify Healthy Shoots
Look for vibrant, disease-free suckers or side shoots growing between the main stem and branches of the parent plant. - Cut at the Right Spot
Using sterilized shears, make a clean cut just below a leaf node (this is where the roots will emerge). - Remove Lower Leaves
Strip off the bottom leaves, leaving 2–3 leaves at the top. This reduces water loss and focuses the plant’s energy on growing roots. - Optional Step
Dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage faster and more robust root development. While it’s optional, it can improve your success rate.
Pro Tip: Tomato plants should be at least 6–10 inches tall and have a sturdy stem before transplanting.
Preparing Tomato Cuttings for Rooting
Now that your cuttings are taken, it’s time to prepare them for their rooting environment:
- Fill your containers or pots with a well-draining potting mix or rooting medium.
- Use a pencil or stick to create a small hole in the soil.
- Insert the cutting into the hole, ensuring at least one leaf node is buried under the soil.
- Gently firm the soil around the cutting to hold it in place.
Adding a label to each pot can help you keep track if you’re propagating multiple varieties!
Creating the Ideal Environment for Rooting
Tomato cuttings thrive when conditions are just right. Here’s how to create an optimal rooting environment:
- Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy to ensure proper hydration for the tomato cuttings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so check the soil regularly and water as needed. A well-draining soil mix is ideal to maintain the right moisture levels.
- Humidity: Use a clear plastic bag or humidity dome to trap moisture and create a greenhouse effect, which helps prevent the cuttings from drying out. Make sure to ventilate occasionally to avoid mold or mildew build-up.
- Light: Place the cuttings in a bright, warm spot with indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the cuttings, so choose a location with filtered light or a partially shaded area to encourage healthy growth.
Pro Tip: Ventilate your cuttings daily by removing the plastic bag for a few minutes to prevent mold or fungal growth.
Caring for Tomato Cuttings During Rooting
It typically takes 1–2 weeks for roots to form. During this period:
- Check soil moisture regularly and water as needed to keep the soil moist.
- Gently tug on the cutting after a week to check for resistance, a sign of root growth.
- Once roots form, reduce humidity by removing the plastic covering for longer periods each day.
When the roots reach 2–3 inches long, your cuttings are ready for transplanting!
Transplanting Rooted Tomato Cuttings

Here’s how to transition those rooted cuttings into the garden or larger pots:
- Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
- Harden off the cuttings by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions over 5–7 days.
- Plant the cuttings deep, burying a portion of the stem to encourage strong root systems.
- Water thoroughly after transplanting to help the plants settle.However, tomatoes should not be watered every day; instead, they should be watered deeply 2–3 times a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.
- Avoid planting tomatoes in the same spot every year to prevent soil-borne diseases and nutrient depletion.
After transplanting, water the plants every 2–3 days, depending on the weather, to keep the soil consistently moist. Tomato plants may droop slightly after transplanting due to shock, but they usually recover within a few days with proper care.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Having issues? Don’t worry—here are some solutions to common propagation problems:
- Cuttings Not Rooting: Ensure the environment is warm and humid enough, and use a rooting hormone.
- Yellowing Leaves: Check for overwatering and consider adding a balanced fertilizer.
- Mold or Fungus: Improve ventilation and avoid overwatering.
- Wilting Cuttings: Provide shade and consistent moisture.
Tips for Propagation Success
- Always start with healthy, disease-free parent plants.
- Sterilize your tools to prevent the spreading of infections or pests.
- Experiment with different tomato varieties to discover your favorites!
- Keep a gardening journal to track your propagation techniques and outcomes.
“Many home gardeners are amazed at how quickly and easily they can multiply their tomato plants using cuttings,” says Roberta Green, Founder of GreenThumb Community.
Additional Information
- You can cut a branch off a tomato plant and replant it, as long as it’s a healthy sucker or side shoot.
- Rooting tomato cuttings in the soil is highly effective, especially when using a well-draining mix and maintaining proper moisture levels.
- When pruning, remove suckers (side shoots) and any diseased or damaged branches to encourage healthy growth.