How to grow tomato plants?

I have a pair of tomato plants which are growing quite nicely and quickly. Can anyone tell me though: how do you know WHICH of the 'lateral shoots' to nip off and HOW and WHEN?





Thanks!

How to grow tomato plants?
The lateral shoots are the ones then come from the junction between the main stalk and leaves.


If left these go on to make a bush rather than a tall plant.


here is very good





http://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/basics/te...





And here shows exactly where the side shoots are.





http://www.gardenaction.co.uk/fruit_veg_...





Just use a sharp knife to cut them off but be careful not to damage the stem.
Reply:be sure and pick off the blooms until the plants get large...


if a tomato sets fruit too soon, all the energy goes to the fruit, and the plant stays too small.
Reply:Most people remove "suckers" as soon as they see them. Pinch, break, cut, prune...technique depends on the individual and tools at hand.