How to Put Cages on Tomato Plants

Tomatoes are a popular and versatile vegetable that can be grown in gardens, raised beds, or even containers. As tomato plants grow and produce fruit, however, they can become unruly and require support. This is where tomato cages come in – they provide a sturdy and reliable structure for tomato plants to grow around. Here's how to put cages on tomato plants:

Step 1: Choose the Right Cages

Before you can put cages on tomato plants, you need to choose the right ones. Tomato cages come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials, including metal, plastic, and bamboo. Look for cages that are sturdy, tall enough to accommodate your plants as they grow, and have evenly spaced bars or prongs. Make sure the cage will easily fit around your tomato plant, but also leave enough space for the plant to grow and produce fruit.

Step 2: Install the Cages

Once you have your cages, it's time to install them in your garden or container. Start by placing the cage over the young tomato plant as soon as it is planted. This will help prevent the plant from getting damaged or disturbed later on. Push the prongs or legs of the cage firmly into the soil until the cage is securely in place. Make sure the cage is centered around the plant and is standing straight up.

Step 3: Adjust the Cage as Needed

As the tomato plant grows taller and wider, you may need to adjust the cage to provide proper support. If the cage is too small or too short, the plant may outgrow it and start to lean or fall over. If this happens, gently push the excess foliage back inside the cage and adjust the prongs or legs to raise the cage higher. Continue to monitor the plant as it grows and adjust the cage as needed.

Step 4: Remove Any Suckers

As your tomato plant grows, it may produce "suckers" – small shoots that grow between the stem and the leaf. These suckers can sap energy from the plant and reduce its overall yield. To prevent this from happening, it's important to remove any suckers that appear. Use pruning shears to carefully cut off the suckers as they grow, being careful not to damage the main stem.

Step 5: Maintain Your Tomato Plants

Once your tomato plants are properly supported by cages, it's important to continue to care for them throughout the growing season. Water them regularly, fertilize as needed, and keep an eye out for any signs of disease or pests. Prune the plants as necessary to promote healthy growth and fruit production.

In conclusion, using tomato cages to support your plants is an important step in growing healthy and productive tomato plants. By choosing the right cages, installing them properly, adjusting as needed, removing suckers, and maintaining your plants, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of tasty tomatoes!