HELP-I Murdered my Cherokee Purple Tomato

CPN 4/7/2010, 9:43 pm

I was planting my SFG today and low and behold I broke the main stem of a Cherokee Purple tomato. Come to find out the garden center that specializes in heirlooms does not have anymore and not sure if they will. I went ahead and planted the root ball with the stem about 4 inches above the ground. Wondering if it will grow new leaves?? I did take the other end with the leaves and put it in water in hopes it might sprout roots. I really wanted to try this tomato out this year.

P

boffer 4/7/2010, 9:54 pm

Dixie said in this thread

https://squarefoot.forumotion.com/lower-south-f10/about-tomato-spacing-need-reassurance-t1166.htm#7888

that she puts her over size suckers in Mel's mix to grow. I would guess the main stem would too.

pattipan 4/7/2010, 9:55 pm

We gardeners can get emotional about our plants...I feel your pain, CPN.

However, I think you are wise to keep on trying to save the plant. Most of my tomato plants have had suckers grow out near the ground, so there is hope! Also, I remember my dad used to plant the suckers that he pruned from tomatoes and they almost always grew (i.e. he just stuck them in the ground)!

Hope it grows!
Patti

Cornerstone 4/7/2010, 10:44 pm

You should be able to "root" the top part. Tomatoes are pretty easy to start from cuttings. If you cover any part of a tomato stem to will set out roots. With a broken stem, you should be able to "root" it in a glass of water.

Retired Member 1 4/7/2010, 10:55 pm

Ouch! I have an extra -- wish I could send it to you. Here's a link to instruction for cloning which should work. http://www.njtomato.com/growtip4.html

Note you only put the stem in water for a few hours, then into a potting mix. I'd use Mel's mix in a 4" pot. They will root just in water but those roots will be really delicate. In Mel's mix or potting soil, the roots will be sturdier. You should be able to transplant them into the garden in 2 to 3 weeks.

Momma Pajama 4/7/2010, 11:23 pm

I just posted my experience with this on a different thread. Good luck!

https://squarefoot.forumotion.com/lower-south-f10/about-tomato-spacing-need-reassurance-t1166.htm#7930

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