How to Put Wire Around Tomato Plants

Introduction

As tomato plants grow, their stems become heavy and they need support to avoid breaking. There are several ways to provide support, such as using stakes or cages. Another effective option is to put wire around the tomato plants. This method requires some basic materials and skills, but it is easy to do and beneficial for the plants. Here's how to put wire around tomato plants.

Materials Needed

Before starting, gather the following materials:

Wire mesh or chicken wire, enough to enclose the tomato plants

Wire cutters

Gardening gloves (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have the materials, follow these simple steps to put wire around your tomato plants:

Cut the wire mesh or chicken wire to the appropriate size. Ideally, the wire should be about 4 or 5 feet tall and long enough to wrap around the tomato plants without leaving any gaps.

Pick a side of the plants to start. Wear gardening gloves if you prefer, as the wire can be sharp and scratchy.

Hold the wire mesh against the plants, with one end touching the ground and the other extending above the top of the plants. Make sure the wire is centered and level.

Wrap the wire mesh around the plants gently but tightly, making sure it is snug against the stems but not too tight as to cause damage. Use wire cutters to trim any excess wire.

Move to the next side of the plants and repeat the process, making sure to overlap the edges of the wire mesh a little so there are no gaps. Continue until all sides of the plants are surrounded by the wire mesh.

Ensure that the wire mesh is secure but not too tight around the plants. The wire should be able to move slightly as the plants grow, but not enough to cause the support to collapse.

Benefits of Putting Wire Around Tomato Plants

Putting wire around your tomato plants provides several benefits:

Supports the plants and prevents them from falling over, which can damage the stems and reduce fruit yield.

Allows air and sunlight to reach all parts of the plants, promoting healthy growth and preventing diseases.

Keeps the fruits off the ground, reducing the risk of rot or pest damage.

Makes harvesting easier, as the fruits are more accessible and visible.

Enhances the appearance of the garden, creating a neat and tidy look.

Conclusion

Putting wire around tomato plants is a simple and effective way to provide support and promote healthy growth. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a sturdy and functional support system that will benefit your plants throughout the growing season. Remember to check the wire occasionally and adjust it as needed to ensure proper support. Happy gardening!