How to Install Tomato Cages

Install tomato cages to support the growing plants.

Tomato growers must choose a system for supporting tomato plants as they grow. Due to the height and heaviness of tomato plants, they require substantial support to keep them upright or they will sprawl in an untidy mess on the ground. If you choose tomato cages to support your robust tomatoes, install them when you plant your tomatoes. This enables the tomatoes to grow within the cages without disturbing the plants later.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel

Instructions

1. Dig holes for each tomato plant, spacing the holes at least three feet apart in your garden area. As you dig the holes, slightly loosen the soil around the hole so you can easily insert the tomato cages.

2. Plant each tomato plant into the prepared hole. Cover the roots with soil. Tamp the soil down gently with your hands.

3. Lower a tomato cage carefully around a tomato plant. Make sure the cage's protruding legs contact the soil four to six inches away from the tomato plant. Place the tomato cage lightly onto the soil around the tomato plant while you adjust the position of each cage leg.

4. Place your hands on the lowest horizontal wire of the tomato cage. Push the legs gently into the soil until the horizontal wire you are pushing rests just above the soil level.

5. Repeat the tomato cage installation for each tomato plant.

Tips & Warnings

• If cold weather threatens new tomato plants in early spring, wrap the bottom half of the tomato cage with plastic or burlap to protect the tender plants from frigid temperatures. This may also promote earlier blooming. Remove the plastic or burlap when the spring temperatures moderate and remain above 60.

References

• Gardener's Supply Company: Instructions -- Tomato Cages
• Mississippi State University Extension: Staking and Training Tomatoes