Introduction
Planting tomato plants with a paper collar is a great way to protect them from cutworms and other pests. These collars are easy to make and can be an effective way to ensure healthy tomato plants. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to plant tomato plants with a paper collar.
Step 1: Gather the Supplies
To begin, you will need to gather the necessary supplies. You will need:
Tomato plants
Newspaper or cardboard
Scissors
Tape or stapler
Step 2: Create the Collars
The next step is to create the paper collars. To do this, you will need to:
Cut newspaper or cardboard into strips that are 2-3 inches wide and long enough to wrap around the base of the tomato plant
Wrap the strip around the base of the tomato plant, creating a collar that is about 1 inch high
Secure the collar with tape or a stapler. Make sure it is tight enough to stay in place but not so tight that it will damage the stem of the plant
Step 3: Plant the Tomato Plants
Once you have created the paper collars, it is time to plant the tomato plants. To do this:
Dig a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the roots of the tomato plant
Place the tomato plant in the hole and fill the hole with soil
Water the tomato plant well
Step 4: Reapply the Collars When Necessary
It is important to check the paper collars regularly and reapply them as necessary. If the collar becomes damaged or starts to degrade, it may no longer be effective in protecting the tomato plant. To reapply the collar:
Cut a new strip of newspaper or cardboard
Wrap the new strip around the base of the tomato plant and secure it with tape or a stapler
Conclusion
Planting tomato plants with a paper collar is a simple and effective way to protect them from pests. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your tomato plants grow healthy and strong. With a little bit of effort and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest in no time!