What Types of Tomato Plants Should be Staked?

Staking tomato plants is an important part of the growing process. Not only does it help keep the plant upright and prevent it from falling over, but it also promotes air circulation and reduces the risk of disease. However, not all tomato plants need to be staked. In this article, we'll discuss which types of tomato plants should be staked and why.

Determinate Tomato Plants

Determinate tomato plants are compact plants that grow to a predetermined size and produce a finite number of fruits. These types of plants are ideal for staking because they usually reach a maximum height of 3-4 feet and do not require as much space as indeterminate tomato plants. Staking ensures that the plants stay upright and the fruit stays off the ground, making it easier to harvest and reducing the risk of rot.

Popular determinate tomato varieties include Roma, Celebrity, and San Marzano.

Indeterminate Tomato Plants

Indeterminate tomato plants are vines that continue to grow and produce fruit until they are killed by frost. These types of plants require more space to grow and can reach a height of 6-10 feet. While it is not necessary to stake indeterminate tomato plants, it is recommended as it allows for better air circulation, reduces the risk of disease, and makes it easier to harvest.

Popular indeterminate tomato varieties include Brandywine, Beefsteak, and Cherry.

Semi-Determinate Tomato Plants

Semi-determinate tomato plants are a hybrid of determinate and indeterminate tomato plants. They grow to a medium height and produce a moderate number of fruits. While these types of tomato plants can be left to grow on their own, staking them can help improve air circulation and prevent the fruit from touching the ground.

Popular semi-determinate tomato varieties include Early Girl and Supersweet 100.

Conclusion

In conclusion, staking tomato plants is an essential part of the growing process. Determinate tomato plants, indeterminate tomato plants, and semi-determinate tomato plants can all benefit from staking. By staking your tomato plants, you will help keep them upright, promote air circulation, reduce the risk of disease, and make harvesting easier. Happy growing!