Many vegetable and perennials may be unable to support themselves as they grow, and even a mild rainfall can beat down or weigh on plants. Stakes, a trellis or even hanging twine can support climbing plants out of reach of hungry slugs and birds while also encouraging airflow and preventing fungus.
Delphiniums, peonies, raspberries, gooseberry, currants, peas, kiwis and hops are just a few examples of plants that may need support.
“All these different stuff that as they grow, they get heavier, top heavy,” said master gardener Ed Buyarski. “Having that support would be good for the health of the plant, reduce fungus contamination problems from the fungus that’s in the soil that can splashed up onto them by the rain.”
You can find trellis materials at most garden retailers in town, while alder sticks, existing fencing and even scrap rebar can work as low-cost alternatives.
