How to Put a Cage on Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetable plants to grow in home gardens. They are easy to maintain and yield a bountiful harvest. However, as the plant grows, it may become difficult to support its weight without a proper support structure. A tomato cage provides an ideal solution for this problem. In this article, we will guide you on how to put a cage on tomato plants.

Choosing the Right Tomato Cage

There are a variety of tomato cages available in the market. Some are made of wood, while others are made of metal or plastic. Choosing the right tomato cage will depend on the size of your tomato plant, its growth pattern and your personal preferences. A good cage should be sturdy enough to support the weight of the plant as it grows taller.

Preparing the Tomato Plant

Before you put a cage on your tomato plant, you need to prepare it so that it is ready to be supported. Start by removing any weeds or debris from around the base of the plant. Gently loosen the soil around the plant's roots to ensure that they are not damaged during the process. Also, prune any leaves or branches that are touching the ground to promote proper air circulation.

Installing the Tomato Cage

Once your tomato plant is prepared, it is time to install the cage. Gently lift the plant up and place the cage around it. Carefully insert the legs of the cage into the soil, ensuring that they are firmly planted. The cage should be pushed down until it is about two inches into the soil. Make sure that the cage is centered around the plant and is not leaning to one side.

Securing the Tomato Cage

After you have installed the cage, it is important to secure it in place to prevent it from falling over. This can be done by using stakes or by tying the cage to a nearby post or fence. If you are using stakes, insert them into the ground on either side of the cage and then tie the cage to the stakes using twine or wire. If you are tying the cage to a post or fence, use twine or wire to attach the cage to the support structure to keep it upright and stable.

Training Your Tomato Plant

After you have secured the cage, you can begin to train your tomato plant to grow up through the cage. As the plant grows taller, gently weave the branches through the openings in the cage to support them. This will help the plant grow upright and prevent it from sprawling out on the ground. Also, remove any suckers that grow between the main stem and the branches to prevent the plant from becoming too bushy.

Conclusion

A tomato cage is an essential tool for supporting your tomato plants as they grow taller. By choosing the right cage, preparing your plant, installing and securing the cage, and training your plant to grow through it, you can ensure that your tomatoes will grow tall, healthy and produce a bountiful harvest. With these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious tomatoes straight from your backyard garden.