How to Train a Tomato Plant Up a Trellis

The word "trellis" often conjures up an image of roses climbing up a white fanned frame against the side of a shed and is usually constructed of light wood or plastic. A trellis used to train tomatoes is different, as it is designed to provide support for several plants at different stages of their development. There are numerous designs for tomato trellises, including wire or mesh fencing stretched between posts and teepees built of long bamboo poles. Whatever system you use, the tomato vines must be attached properly to keep the fruit-bearing blossoms up and off the ground.

trellis system
trowel
narrow cloth strips
cotton twine
pruning shears

Instructions

- 1
  Dig holes for tomato plants roughly 3 to 4 inches from the base of the trellis.
- 2
  Space plants at least 12 inches apart in rows along a fence-type trellis system, or place one plant at the base of each bamboo pole used in a teepee system.
- 3
  Use a cloth strip or cotton twine to attach the top stem of the tomato plant to the first part of the trellis system it reaches as it grows.
- 4
  Tie the main stem loosely to the trellis support, being careful not to cut into the tender stem.
- 5
  Prune any excess branches from the plant, leaving about three or four strong ones. Tie these loosely to the trellis as they grow.
- 6
  Repeat Step 4 as the plant grows. Prune any new growth, called suckers, that emerge where a leaf stem joins the main stem. Suckers drain the plant of nutrients needed for tomato production.
- 7
  Attach blossom-bearing stems to the trellis at a point above the blossoms so the weight of the fruit doesn't pull the vines down.

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