Introduction

Tomatoes are an essential ingredient in countless delicious dishes that we love. Growing tomatoes on our own is a great way to ensure that we have fresh supplies all-year-round. Setting up trellis on tomato plants is a brilliant way of supporting the plants as they grow taller. In this article, we will discuss how to set trellis on tomato plants.

Why Set Up Trellis on Tomato Plants?

Tomato plants have a tendency to grow tall and heavy. The fruit-bearing stems and branches require support as they may fall and break due to the plant’s weight. Trellis acts as a support system that holds the stems firmly in place. In addition, trellis enhances the air circulation, ensuring that the leaves do not stay damp or develop any fungal diseases

Materials Required For Setting Up Trellis

It’s essential to have functional materials on hand before setting up trellis on tomato plants. You will need: sturdy wooden stakes, galvanized wire, clippers, and twine. You may also choose to purchase a trellis kit, which comes with all the materials needed.

Preparing the Garden for Setting Up Trellis

The first step in setting up trellis is to clear the garden area. Remove all weeds, rocks, and debris from the garden bed. Ensure that the soil is well-draining, as damp soil could cause root rot. Make holes in the garden bed using a spade, where you will plant the tomato seedlings.

Planting and Growing Tomato Seedlings

Plant the tomato seedlings in the holes made in the garden bed. Use rich organic soil that is deep enough for roots to grow. Water the plants immediately after planting, and thereafter, water them regularly, ensuring that the soil remains moist. Add balanced amounts of fertilizer, having equal parts of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, as the plants grow.

Preparing Trellis System

Attach the galvanized wire between two secure wooden stakes. The height of the stakes should be a few inches taller than the tomato plants. Ensure that the wire is attached tightly, ensuring that it does not sag under the plant’s weight. Follow the same process for every row of tomato plants.

Attaching the Tomato Plants to Trellis

Gently guide each tomato plant towards the trellis. Use twine, attach the stems to the wire or trellis netting, ensuring that the plant is supported correctly. As the tomato plants grow, keep guiding them towards the trellis by wrapping the stems around the wire. Ensure that the stems and branches are not too tight, as it could stem the flow of water and nutrient.

Maintenance of Trellised Tomato Plants

Regularly check the tomato plants while they grow; ensure that they are growing towards the trellis. Remove all suckers and leaves that shade the tomato plant fruit. The fruit requires enough sunlight to ripen; therefore, shade can delay growth. Mulch the soil surface with hay, straw or fallen leaves to retain moisture level in the soil.

Conclusion

Setting up trellis on tomato plants is not a challenging task, but it is critical to the plant’s health and growth process. The method of setting up trellis as described above is an effective way of supporting your tomato plants. Regular maintenance of the trellis system ensures that your tomato plants grow strong and provide you with juicy tomatoes that you can enjoy all year round.