Tomahook / Lower-and-Lean Tomato Training

Lower-and-lean is a vertical training method for indeterminate (vining) tomatoes. Each plant hangs from a spool of twine on a hook (a "tomahook") above the row. As the vine grows past the top wire, you unspool a little twine and lean the plant sideways, lowering the growing tip back to a workable height.

Indeterminate tomatoes grow for months and can reach 8+ feet. Lowering and leaning lets a plant keep producing all season while the fruiting top stays at a comfortable picking height. Plants stay open and well-supported, which improves airflow and reduces disease.

Run a sturdy horizontal wire or bar above the row. Hang a tomahook (twine spool) over the wire for each plant and clip the twine to the base of the stem. Prune to one or two main stems and twist or clip the vine to the twine as it grows. When a plant reaches the top, unwind some twine and slide the hook along the wire so the plant leans over and the tip drops. Repeat through the season, keeping the lower, bare stem laid along the ground or bed edge.

This method shines for indeterminate varieties in tunnels, greenhouses, and long-season gardens. Keep removing the lowest leaves as you lower plants to maintain airflow. Determinate (bush) tomatoes don't need it — a cage or stake is enough.