If you’ve ever struggled with supporting your tomato plants, you’re not alone. Today, I’m excited to share a game-changing method that has revolutionized my tomato growing experience—the Florida weave. Join me as I demonstrate how I’ll be transplanting my tomato plants using this method, which originated right here in Florida. The Florida weave offers a low-cost yet highly effective way to trellis tomato plants, ensuring better air circulation and reducing the risk of fungal issues and pests. Let’s dive right in!
Preparing the Garden Bed:
Before transplanting tomato plants, it’s crucial to prepare the garden soil. Choose a sunny spot that receives six to eight hours of sunlight daily, ensuring good drainage. Clear the area of existing plants, weeds, and debris. In my case, I remove spent cabbage and broccoli plants from the bed.
Transplanting Tomato Plants:
Dig a hole in the prepared bed deep enough to accommodate the plant’s roots, about 6-12 inches. Add a general fertilizer like Tomatotone or Gardentone from Espoma to the planting hole. Gently remove the tomato plant from its container, being mindful of the roots. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, firming it around the base. Water the transplanted tomato plants immediately to reduce transplant shock. For minimal shock, consider transplanting later in the day as the sun begins to set.
Setting Up Florida Weave Support:
All you need for the Florida weave support are two stakes and twine. Place a stake at each end of the tomato plant row. Tie a piece of twine to the first stake and weave it in and out of the plants as you approach the second stake. Secure the twine tightly to the second stake. Repeat the weaving on the top as the plants grow, continuing to support new growth.
The Florida weave method provides a painless and efficient solution to the tomato support dilemma. I’ll keep you updated on its success throughout the season. Happy gardening!
