Not all plants grow the same way. Some plants stay short and sturdy, while others grow tall, climb, or spread out as they get bigger. Certain vegetables need a little extra support to help keep their stems, leaves, and fruits off the ground.

Tomatoes are one of the most common vegetables that need support. As tomato plants grow, they can become heavy with fruit. Without support, the stems may bend or break. Gardeners often use tomato cages to help keep plants upright.

Cucumbers are natural climbers. Their vines like to stretch and reach upward. Many gardeners grow cucumbers on a trellis, which is a structure that gives the vines something to climb. Growing upward can also make harvesting easier.

Supports do not always need to be fancy. Gardeners sometimes use wooden stakes, bamboo poles, string, or wire to help plants grow. Some even get creative by using old ladders, fences, wooden pallets, or recycled materials to help support climbing plants as they grow. The goal is simply to give the plant a safe place to grow without falling over.

Supporting plants can also help improve airflow around the leaves and make it easier to spot fruits when they are ready to harvest. A little support can help plants stay healthier and more organized throughout the growing season.

Try It!

Look around your home or classroom and find something that needs support to stand up, such as a book on a shelf or a picture frame. What helps it stay upright?

Now think about a tomato plant or cucumber vine. What might happen if it did not have enough support? Draw a plant and a possible support structure to help it grow tall and strong. Get creative!