How to Put Cages Around Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a great addition to any garden, and if you want to ensure they grow strong and healthy, it’s important to provide them with the proper support. One effective way to do this is by using cages. In this article, we’ll show you how to put cages around tomato plants.

Choosing the Right Cages

Before you start putting cages around your tomato plants, you need to choose the right type of cages. There are many different types of cages to choose from, including metal, bamboo, and plastic. The key is to choose a cage that is sturdy and tall enough to support your tomato plants as they grow.

Metal cages are a popular choice because they are strong and durable. However, they can be difficult to store, and they may rust over time. Bamboo cages are a natural and sustainable option, but they may not be as sturdy as metal cages. Finally, plastic cages are lightweight and easy to store, but they may not be as strong as metal or bamboo cages.

Preparing the Soil

Before you put your cages around your tomato plants, it’s important to prepare the soil. First, remove any weeds or debris from around your plants. Next, loosen the soil around the base of your plants with a garden fork. This will help the roots to grow deeper and stronger.

You may also want to add some fertilizer to the soil to help your plants grow. Choose a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, as this will help your tomato plants produce more leaves and stems. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully.

Placing the Cages

Once you’ve chosen your cages and prepared the soil, it’s time to put the cages around your tomato plants. Start by selecting a cage that is tall enough to support your tomato plants. If you’re using metal cages, you may need to bend the top of the cage to make it fit more easily around your plants.

Place the cage around your tomato plant, making sure that the legs of the cage are firmly in the soil. If your tomato plant is smaller, you may want to attach the cage to a wooden stake to provide extra support. Use twist ties to secure the cage to the stake.

Training Your Plants

Once you’ve put your cages in place, it’s important to train your tomato plants to grow within the cages. When your plants are still small, gently tie the branches to the cage using twist ties. This will help them to grow straight and tall. Be sure to tie the branches loosely, so they have room to move as the plant grows.

As your tomato plants grow, continue to tie them to the cage as needed. You may also need to prune your plants to keep them from growing too tall or too wide. Use sharp gardening shears to carefully remove any unwanted stems or branches.

Maintaining Your Cages

Finally, it’s important to maintain your cages to ensure that they continue to provide support for your tomato plants. Check your cages regularly to make sure they are still securely in place. If you notice any rust or damage, replace the cages with new ones.

Also, be sure to water your tomato plants regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Proper watering will help your plants grow strong and healthy, and it will also help to prevent your cages from tipping over.

Conclusion

Putting cages around your tomato plants is a simple and effective way to provide them with the support they need to grow strong and healthy. By choosing the right cages, preparing the soil, and training your plants to grow within the cages, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest in no time!