There are several cases when flowers are picked off seedlings. Much in this case depends on the cultivated species.
For example, when potatoes bloom, gardeners pick off the flowers so that the tubers are larger. But this is not the only case. We will tell you why flowers are picked off other crops.
If we talk specifically about seedlings, then they pick off the flowers on tomatoes and peppers. It is believed that this is only for the benefit of vegetables.
Firstly, it improves the development of the root system, since nutrition is no longer directed to the flower, but to the stem and roots.
Secondly, the plant as a whole continues to increase green mass.
Thirdly, there are many more arguments that can be given, but not all gardeners will agree with them, and here’s why.
1. If we talk about building up the root system, experienced gardeners believe that no matter how many additional roots a plant puts out, the seedlings will not be able to consume more nutrition than they need.
2. By picking flowers, summer residents postpone the fruiting period to a later date, i.e. the end of summer, when the temperature has already dropped considerably.
3. It is not a fact that the fruits will grow larger after the first flowers are picked from the bushes.
Even in this case, gardeners' opinions are divided. It is believed that the fruit will grow deformed or very large.
It has been noted that after picking such a flower, subsequent ovaries turn out neat and beautiful.
Therefore, it would be correct to say that removing the first flower is more of a voluntary matter than a strict rule.