How to support large tomato plants

Tomatoes are a popular garden crop, but with their rapid growth and heavy fruit, they can become too cumbersome for their own weight. Without proper support, tomato plants can fall over or even break, causing damage to both the plant and the fruits. Here are some tips on how to support large tomato plants and ensure a healthy, fruitful harvest.

Choose the right support system

There are several types of support systems that can be used for tomato plants, including cages, stakes, and trellises. It is important to choose the right system for your plants based on their size and growth habit. Cages work well for determinate varieties that don't need a lot of support, while stake systems are better for indeterminate varieties or larger plants. Trellises are similar to stake systems, but provide a wider area of support for sprawling plants.

Install supports early

It is important to install supports early in the growth cycle of your tomato plants. This will ensure that the plants grow into the support structure, rather than becoming entangled or leaning in different directions. For determinate varieties, cages can be installed when the plants are small. For indeterminate varieties, stakes or trellises should be installed shortly after the plants are planted in the ground.

Tie branches to supports

As tomato plants grow, they will naturally produce side branches that can become heavy with fruit. It is important to tie these branches to the support structure to prevent them from breaking under the weight. Soft ties, such as twine or cloth, should be used to tie the branches loosely to the support system, allowing the plant to move freely in the wind without damaging the stem.

Pinch off suckers

Tomato plants will also produce suckers, which are small branches that grow between the main stem and side branches. While these suckers can eventually produce fruit, they also take energy away from the main stem and can make the plant too heavy to support. It is recommended to pinch off suckers early in the growth cycle to allow the plant to focus on producing fruit on the main stem.

Provide proper irrigation

Proper irrigation is key to supporting large tomato plants. Water should be provided regularly and deeply to promote strong root growth and prevent the plants from becoming top-heavy. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are recommended to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to disease issues. Water should be provided early in the day to ensure that the plants have enough moisture to carry them through the day.

Conclusion

By providing the right support system, tying branches to supports, pinching off suckers, and providing proper irrigation, you can help your tomato plants grow strong and healthy, and produce a plentiful harvest. With a little work and attention, you can enjoy delicious fresh tomatoes from your garden all season long.