How to Build the Best Tomato Trellis: The Florida Weave

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Hello everyone, and welcome to Simply Made Homestead! Today, I’m standing right in the middle of my tomato patch, and if you’ve ever grown a large number of tomatoes, you know that traditional cages just aren’t feasible. They get expensive, and honestly, they don’t hold up very well under the weight of the plants. That’s why I want to share with you a simple, affordable, and sturdy way to support your tomato plants—the Florida Weave!

I first tried this method last year and absolutely loved it. I’ve made a couple of modifications to improve its stability, and today, I’m going to show you exactly how to set it up so you can give your tomatoes the support they need to thrive.

Materials You’ll Need:

• 1×2 wooden stakes (Purchased at Lowe’s for $2.18 each, cut in half to create 4-foot stakes)
• Garden twine (I use a large box from Hoss Tools—link in the description for those interested)
• Rubber mallet (for driving stakes into the ground)

Setting Up the Florida Weave:

• Placing the Stakes:
  • Position a stake every two tomato plants, right between them.
  • Make sure to turn the wide side of the stake towards the plants for added support.
  • Use a rubber mallet to drive the stakes into the ground until they feel secure.
  • Be mindful of any drip tape irrigation to avoid damaging it.

• Starting the Weave:
  • Tie the twine securely to the first end stake, wrapping it around two to three times and knotting it tightly.
  • Weave the twine in and out, alternating sides of the tomato plants as you move down the row.
  • When you reach the last stake, wrap the twine around it two to three times to secure it before heading back in the opposite direction.

• Building Up Support:
  • Begin with your first row of twine low to the ground to support young plants.
  • As the tomatoes grow, continue adding rows of twine every 8 inches up the stakes.
  • This method provides excellent lateral support, keeping plants upright and preventing fruit from touching the ground.

Why the Florida Weave Works:

• Cost-effective: Stakes and twine are much more affordable than buying multiple cages.
• Sturdy: Provides excellent support throughout the growing season.
• Easy Maintenance: As plants grow, simply add more layers of twine—no need for constant adjustments.

Final Thoughts

The Florida Weave is one of the best trellising methods for gardeners looking for a sturdy, cost-effective, and efficient way to support their tomato plants. By using simple materials like wooden stakes and garden twine, you can create a support system that keeps your plants upright, improves air circulation, and makes harvesting easier. Plus, as your plants grow, adding additional twine layers ensures they stay well-supported throughout the season.

Whether you’re growing a few tomato plants or an entire row, this method is a game-changer for maintaining a healthy and productive garden. Give it a try, and let me know how it works for you!

If you have any questions, drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear from you. And don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more homesteading tips and gardening techniques.

Now, grab your gardening gloves, get out there, and let’s grow something amazing!

SHOP THIS POST:

• Garden twine
• Butcher twine

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Disclaimer:

Some of the links above are affiliate links which means that I receive a small commission on qualified purchases at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products that I would use myself. 

Happy Homesteading!

Marian

If you ever have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to ask. I love to hear from you!!