The curious case of chickens in the greenhouse are these tomato plants ruined?

Discussion in 'Greenhouse Growing' started by Freedom_Spark, Jun 3, 2011.

  1. Freedom_Spark

    Freedom_Spark Gardener

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    Hi everyone, a chicken and a rooster managed to make their way into the greenhouse (it was my fault I left the gate open) when I went to take them out they weren't overly pleased and there was quite alot of flapping which managed to slice the tops off two of my tomato plants and a set of flowers off another. Will the tops coming off mean there will be no further growth? Should I dump them and make more room for the survivors?

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  2. Phil A

    Phil A Guest

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    Hi Freedom Spark,

    Chickens just have to try things don't they. Mine used to drink my tea while I was still using it:DOH:

    That looks like a disaster but the side shoots will quickly all try to become the dominant shoot.

    In fact it might even make them produce more side shoots than they would have, you'll have your work cut out keeping them in check.
     
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    • pete

      pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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      Agree with Ziggy, dont give up on them, but pinch back to one main shoot once the side shoots start forming.
       
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      • Alice

        Alice Gardener

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        Those tomatoes might not be the stately plants you had hoped for, Freedom Spark, but all is not lost. Sometimes I stop mine by taking their heads off after 1 or 2 trusses. That way I just get earlier tomatoes but smaller crop. What was I going to do with all those tomatoes in October anyway when I wanted them for salads in June.
        Your wayward chickens might have done you a favour. You'll ger tomatoes OK.
         
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        • Freedom_Spark

          Freedom_Spark Gardener

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          Brilliant, I'm glad I asked the experts before I dumped them.

          Thanks everyone.
           
        • Phil A

          Phil A Guest

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          So you asked them as well as us lot then :heehee:
           
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