Tomato Cloning Question

by Mark
(North Carolina)

I am going to be cloning my tomato plants with a homemade cloner. They are going to be in 2" net pots with neoprene collars. When I go to move them into My Best Homemade System, should I just keep the collars and net pots intact or remove both....or just the collars?

Answer: Mark- the neoprene collars perform the same function as the expanded clay pellets in this system....which is to provide physical support. If you are able to manufacture your hydroponic system to fit the 2" netted pots (instead of homemade "pots" or larger netted pots), than I would recommend keeping the collars and netted pots intact and simply move them from the cloner to the hydroponic system once they have roots. As long as you are growing plants no larger than 14 or 16 inches tall, you will probably not require any additional support for the plants.

I have never tried this myself (although I have thought about it). If you find your plants do not have enough physical support with this method, than I suggest placing pre-soaked clay pellets around the stem of your freshly cut/dipped clones. Once the clones begin producing roots, the plant should be able to anchor itself more effectively around the clay pellets and through the netted pots. Leave enough room in the top of the netted pots for a neoprene collar- although it is optional as long as you are using enough clay pellets in each netted pot. Once the clones have roots, simply transplant the netted pots (along with the clay pellets and neoprene collar) into the hydroponic system. Hope this helps you out Mark, and Happy Growing!