Stakes

• Tomatoes that droop from the plant and maintain contact with the soil are likely to rot. Drive wooden stakes into the ground beside tomato plants to keep the plant vertical. Gently tie the tomato plant stem to the stake for stability.
  
  

Cages

• In addition to staking, tomatoes may also be surrounded by a tomato cage. Tomato cages are made from wire and are approximately 18 inches in diameter. (See Reference 2) Cages should be placed around young, small tomato plants for best results. Encourage the plant to grow through the open squares of the cage.
  
  

Containers

• Tomatoes can be grown out of the bottom of a container that is hung high enough to prevent the plant from touching the ground. This upside-down growing method is suitable for gardeners with limited space.