So all of my maters are very well staked and caged. All except 2 dwarfs, that is. These plants are so robust and stocky and symmetrical that I really didn't think they needed any support. At least not now, anyway. Plus, they're in a sheltered bed where a couple of low walls block the wind. They are in very light rich soil though. Anyway, we've been in a pattern of gusty winds and daily storms all week and it caused them no problems. Today, I come home and they're laid over. There's definitely some root damage...hopefully only superficial. I ran a long sturdy stake straight down beside each central stem and used these neat little velcro like strips to secure the plants to the stakes, and then watered them well. I suspect the plants will be fine. Anything else I can do to support them while they recover?
I think the lesson here is "when in doubt, and even when not in doubt, go ahead and support your plants"...
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dustyrivergardens
- Green Thumb
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- Joined: Sat Dec 03, 2011 8:32 am
- Location: Holbrook Az. zone 5b
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gixxerific
- Super Green Thumb
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- Joined: Fri Jun 26, 2009 5:42 pm
- Location: Wentzville, MO (Just West oF St. Louis) Zone 5B
They will be fine. Just prop them up and as Apple said add a little good soil at the root zone to add stability and give it some more root structure.
I have had many blow over or limbs break. I just tie them up so the break is closed. I do not tape it the plant does all the work. Mother nature does some amazing things.
I have had many blow over or limbs break. I just tie them up so the break is closed. I do not tape it the plant does all the work. Mother nature does some amazing things.
Over the years I have had my share of tomatoes, peppers, corn, even squash to blow over. Now I try to make sure the tomato cages have at least some support. Also, since I have such a little bit of corn, I have ropes at a couple different heights to give the corn rows a little support. Working so far, but I saw one tomato cage almost on the ground yesterday.