Tri-Cot Seedling
 

[SIZE=3][FONT=Calibri]One of my tomato seedlings sprouted with three cotyledons, now followed by 3 true leaves. My question is whether this tri-pattern will continue as the plant grows? Is it indicative of some type of genetic fault that typically results in problems down the road? Or will this type of seedling grow up and produce tomatoes just fine? [/FONT][/SIZE]

[SIZE=3][FONT=Calibri]To hedge my bets, I did just plant a couple more seeds of this variety (Fish Lake Oxheart) so can use them if needed...but won't have room for multiples in my garden (drats!). [/FONT][/SIZE]

[SIZE=3][FONT=Calibri]Thanks for any insight.[/FONT][/SIZE]

I don't have all your answers. All I can say is that the one time it happened with one of mine, it reverted to a normal plant in every respect.

It will grow and produce as a normal plant would, although some say they will grow into a stronger plant, which I've never ever noticed any difference in the dozen I've grown.

Your plant will be fine and there's no need to replace it.

Thanks for the insight...Much appreciated!

The developmental program of plants is much more flexible than that found in animals, with many errors having no real consequence for the further growth of the organism.

Though it will likely revert to the more expected pattern of growth, there are plants that have an intrinsic 3-part symmetry to their growth, so there is a very small chance that it will maintain the odd pattern. (This would be really cool.)