- 1). Purchase tomato cages, since they are reusable. They are easy to find and require little setup and maintenance. Cages are usually made of metal wire and are circular or square. To set up a cage, simply place the cage over a young plant, securing the prongs deeply in the ground, ensuring that you do not damage the roots of the plant. As the plant grows, twine the stems through the cage spaces. The cage will hold the stem and tomatoes off the ground and allow the plant to grow without sprawling.
- 2). Use stakes, which are also reusable and more economical, but require a bit more work than the cages. Tomato stakes are one-by-two inch pieces of wood that are generally at least 6 feet tall. Stakes should be driven at least 11 inches into the ground and should be placed approximately 4 inches from the plant on the north side. As the plant grows, tie the stem to the stake with twine. Ideally, only one or two branches should be attached to the stake to keep from overburdening the stake. Other branches should be removed as the plant grows.
- 3). Use tomato trellises for a decorative touch. Tomato trellises work in the same manner as the stakes, but allow multiple plants on the same trellis. Trellises can be made of wire or wooden frames, and can be built to suit the needs of your garden. They work well in garden borders and can add an attractive element to your garden.
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