As you are planning your spring garden, there always seems to be a problem of finding good, strong supports for your tomato vines. But tomato cages that are strong, durable, and stable can be custom-made from concrete reinforcement wire. Rolls of wire that are five feet wide can be purchased from a building supply store, cut into the desired length, and formed into a cage. (If the minimum size roll is more than you will need, share it with another gardener.)
A piece that is 72 inches long (11 uncut squares) makes a good-size cage. The wire can be cut with a bolt cutter or hack saw. Bend each length of cut wire around the other side to form the cage.
A six-foot T-post makes a strong anchor for the cage, which can be attached with wire. This prevents the wind or the weight of a large plant from toppling it over. These cages can be cleaned and stored for the next season and will last for many years.
Jack Quisenberry, Smith County Master Gardener
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