I have several types of plants growing (from seed) - tomatoes, herbs and some perennials.

I know about pinching back the tomato plants. But when it comes to anything else - I have no idea.

Is there a "guideline" for this? Or...to all plants benefit from pinching back?

Thanks for any input...anything will help.

I hope this means you know you do NOT pinch tomato plants.

No, not all plants benefit from pinching back. This is especially true for any and all vegetables. As grandma44 said, tomato seedlings definitely do NOT benefit in any way and in fact, are harmed.

Pruning/suckering a fully established tomato plant is one thing - a highly debated thing - but done by some depending on how the plant is supported. But doing any "pinching" of seedlings, regardless of type (determinate or indeterminate) is guaranteed to damage the plant and reduce your production.

As to flowers: single stem plants - those where additional branches develop from the stem itself) - isn't recommended because you end up with a top heavy plant that the main stem cannot support, either physically or nutritionally. Plants that develop their other branches from the base of the plant (cluster growing plants such as herbs and low growing flowers) can be pinched but isn't required.

There are many helpful posts here on "pinching plants" that a search will pull up for your review if you wish.

Dave

Yes..I know NOT to pinch tomatoes ...just to be clear :-)

I appreciate the info provided...my plants are doing really well this year - thanks to all the tips I learned here.

Great place!