In our Alabama test garden, we have had great success with growing Bush Goliath tomatoes. These tomatoes are known for their high productivity and long harvest season. With ideal growing conditions, we have been able to harvest 70 or more fruits from each plant.
One important thing to note about Bush Goliath tomatoes is that they are indeterminate vines. This means that they have a sprawling growth habit and can continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season. Due to their vigorous nature, it is highly recommended to provide some support for these plants.
There are a few different options for supporting Bush Goliath tomatoes. One popular method is to stake them. This involves inserting a sturdy stake into the ground near the plant and tying the main stem to the stake as it grows. This helps keep the plant upright and prevents it from flopping over under the weight of the fruit.
Another option is to use a tall cage. This is a wire or metal structure that surrounds the plant and provides support from all sides. The cage should be tall enough to accommodate the full height of the plant and allow it to grow without being restricted. As the plant grows, you may need to gently guide the stems through the openings in the cage to keep them contained.
Whether you choose to stake or cage your Bush Goliath tomatoes, it is important to provide support early on in the plant’s growth. This helps prevent any damage to the plant and ensures that it grows upright and healthy. You can install the support structure at the time of planting or shortly after, being careful not to disturb the roots.
In addition to providing support, it is also important to regularly prune and remove any suckers that may form on the plant. Suckers are small shoots that grow in the leaf axils and can divert energy away from fruit production. By removing these suckers, you can help focus the plant’s energy on producing more tomatoes.
While Bush Goliath tomatoes may not require support as much as larger indeterminate varieties, it is still highly recommended to stake or cage them. This will not only help keep the plant upright and prevent damage, but it will also make harvesting easier and more efficient. By providing the necessary support, you can ensure a bountiful harvest of delicious tomatoes from your Bush Goliath plants.
