Can you help me with the lingo!

Well just planted my first crop - Chillis and tomato (moneymaker) and plan on courgettes as well.

Problem is I don't understand the lingo on the seed packet - What is a truss and how do I know when it is set?, how do I pinch out side shoots etc etc.

Can anyone help me with how to look after my tomato seedlngs in non gardening language :D

Many thanks EGW x

 

Hi ellie.A truss is an arm that comes of the main stem it is set when it shows its first fruit you will then find little leaves growing between the main stem and the arm.These are side shoots and should be pinched of as soon as you can.

 

Brilliant - thanks coub - I would have been pulling those arms off thinking they were side shoots!

 

Basically if its got flower buds, leave it, if its growing between leaf stalk and main stem pinch it out.
Dont pinch the growing point out until its reached the final height you want it.
Thats for toms.
Chillis should be left to just grow their own way.
Unless someone knows different.

 

My only fruiting chilli is just one year old. BUT I GOT 4 FRUITS. I am growing them seriously for the first time this year. I am praying a lot.

 

Thanks guys - sounds like I may need a lot of chilli plants for a good crop!

Both varieties of chilli & tomato say they can be grown outside or in a greenhouse - I am planning on growing them on the shelf along the windows in my shed - it does get a lot of direct sun in the afternoon - I will remember to open the door on hot days if I can. Do you think that sounds like a plan or should I just have them outside. I had one chilli plant outside before and no Chillis appeared

 

Toms outside yes, chillis no way, is my guess.

Not sure a shed is a good idea as they need light from all directions if they are to grow well.

 

Thanks Pete, I'll keep them in the mini greenhouse for as long as there is room!

cheers EGW

 

totally agree with pete chillis need light in all directions although some heat[natural]will also help and your toms outside unless they are beef toms then they are better of in a greenhouse or something simaler