How to Make a Tomato Plant Cage
If you’re planning to grow tomatoes, you’ll need a cage to support them as they grow. A tomato cage is a simple, inexpensive way to keep your plants upright and prevent them from drooping or collapsing. Here are the steps to make your own tomato cage in just a few easy steps.
Materials Required
You’ll need the following materials to make a tomato cage:
Heavy-duty wire mesh or fencing
Wire cutters
Gloves
Tape measure
Pliers
Steps to Make a Tomato Cage
Follow the steps below to make your own tomato cage:
Measure and cut the wire mesh to your desired height. The cage should be at least 4 feet tall to accommodate the height of the tomato plant.
Cut the wire mesh to a length that can be bent into a circle with a 12-inch diameter. Use pliers to bend the wire mesh into a circular shape.
Connect the ends of the circle by bending the wire. Make sure the circle is tight and secure.
Flatten one end of the circle, then bend it up to form a leg. The length of the leg should be at least 12 inches.
Repeat steps 1-4 to create three more legs. Each leg should be spaced evenly around the circle.
Pound each leg into the ground, making sure the cage is level and secure. The legs will prevent the tomato plant from tipping over as it grows.
Tips for Using Your New Tomato Cage
Now that you’ve made your own tomato cage, here are a few tips for using it:
Plant your tomato seedlings inside the cage, so the roots will grow through the wire mesh and anchor the plant in place.
As the tomato plant grows, gently tie the stem to the cage using gardening twine. This will help train the plant to grow upwards and prevent it from drooping or collapsing.
Check the cage periodically to make sure it’s still level and secure. If the legs start to lean, pound them further into the ground or adjust the cage until it’s level again.
Remove any dead or diseased leaves from the bottom of the plant to prevent the spread of disease and improve air circulation.
With a little effort, you can make your own tomato cage and enjoy healthy, beautiful tomatoes all season long. Happy gardening!