Growing Tomatoes with Cages: Best Practices for Maximum Yields and Quality Produce

Tomato cages, no pruning or stakes, one stem? It is a common question for gardeners. To get the most produce and use the least amount of time to keep up with tomatoes, cages are suggested as the best choice. Pruning and clipping strings take continuous work while single stem pruning may not yield perfect looking results due to sun scald from lack of foliage shading.

Pruning off branches that fall on the ground and lower foliage splashed with dirt in rain can be beneficial for air circulation which helps prevent disease and especially in wet weather. The extra space created by pruning is also great for spraying. Caged plants tend to bunch up in a jungle, giving bugs a place to hide from the spray. Different growing methods work better on different varieties so it is important to choose suitable varieties.

In areas with high humidity, single stem leaning and lowering is preferred over cages as it allows more varieties to be grown closer together. Dwarf tomatoes respond well to cages while some people prefer spiral conical supports in individual containers. Pruning off bottom foliage touching the ground is essential even if using cages. Opening up the plant to allow air flow during hot and humid summer months helps prevent fungal/bacterial diseases attacking the plants foliage.  

It is worth noting that tomato growing method depends greatly on local weather, season length, growing situation, disease and pest pressures, and variety chosen. An article linked by KarenO provides helpful information about this topic. Thanks to all contributors for their valuable advice!Tomato cages are a great way to get the most out of your tomato plants. They provide support for the plant, help keep it upright and prevent damage from wind or heavy rain. Cages also allow more air circulation around the plant which helps reduce disease pressure and can increase yields by allowing more sunlight to reach all parts of the plant. Pruning off lower foliage that touches soil is important even when using cages as this will help with air flow during hot humid summer months, reducing fungal/bacterial diseases attacking foliage.

In conclusion, there are many different methods for growing tomatoes depending on local weather conditions, season length, pest pressures and variety chosen but generally speaking tomato cages offer an easy solution that requires minimal maintenance while still providing good results in terms of yield and quality produce.