Bumps on the Stems of Tomatoes

Bumps on the stems of healthy tomato plants may look strange but are no cause for concern.

Tomatoes can root all along their stems. Many gardeners take advantage of this by burying a portion of the lower stem at planting. You may have noticed small bumps on the stem of your tomato plant. These are root initiatives that can develop into roots under certain conditions. They often appear when the plant is exposed to drought or high humidity.

If your tomato is exposed to a sudden downpour after a long dry spell, it may cause the stem as well as developing fruit to crack and expose additional root nodules.

Fortunately, tomatoes are resilient and if the stem is left to callus over, the plant will be fine.

Do check the stem and leaves for any signs of disease to make sure there is nothing else damaging your plant.

A bit more information: If the leaves and stem are discolored or growth is distorted, do a bit more research. Stem pith disease usually appears when the fruit is just starting to ripen. Black lesions appear on the stem and they may be cracked, swollen, or sunken.