That is apparently the tomato growers question!
I started removing the suckers from my tomato plants because my mom told me to do it. She gives good advice. I take it. So far so good. Go Mom! I had no idea it was such a controversy until I looked it up for this post!
So what exactly is a sucker?
And why does it matter if your remove it or not?
See that little branch starting to grow out the V? That’s a sucker. If it is left to grow it turns into another main stem that produces flowers, fruit, and more suckers. If snapped off it allows more energy to go toward the main stem and the fruit it will produce.
In short, if left on, you’ll get more numerous, but smaller fruit. If removed you’ll get less, but larger fruit. Take your pick. I think it’s a win either way. You may have a preference based on how you’re using your tomatoes.
Last year I didn’t sucker my plants. I was busy painting the shutters, establishing garden beds around the house, and trimming bushes. I didn’t take time to learn the pros and cons much less actually tend to my tomato plants. Obviously it didn’t matter too much because I got lots of tomatoes and I thought they were a great size too.
This year, the third summer in our house, the yard and house are much more under control. Hence, the bigger focus on the veggie garden! I’m taking the middle of the road approach to suckers. Remove some and leave some. Can’t go wrong with that!
Based on how my plants are looking, I’m confident I’ll get beautiful heirloom tomatoes no matter what I do! Can you tell my confidence is growing?!?! 
What’s your opinion on removing suckers from tomato plants?
I’d love to know what other gardeners think!
