Tying tomatoes with twine is slow, and knots always seem to end up too tight or too loose. These clips snap around a stem and a stake or trellis string in a second, and they are easy to move as the plant grows.
Why they earned a spot in my garden
- Fast. One hand, one click, done.
- Gentle. They hold the plant without strangling the stem.
- Adjustable. Slide or reposition them as the plant climbs.
- Reusable. One bag lasts many seasons.
How I use them
- Set up a stake, cage, or string trellis at planting so you do not disturb roots later.
- As the plant grows, clip the main stem to the support every 8 to 12 inches.
- Place each clip just under a leaf branch so the branch rests on the clip.
- Add more clips as the plant climbs, especially once fruit starts to weigh it down.
Tips for best results
- Check clips every week or two during fast growth and loosen any that are getting tight.
- Use them on cucumbers, pole beans, and peppers too, not just tomatoes.
- Pair them with grow bags and a sturdy stake for an easy patio tomato setup.
Who should skip them
If you grow determinate tomatoes in cages, you may never need clips. For very thick, heavy stems late in the season, soft ties or wider clips can be a better choice.
Common questions
Are plant clips better than twine?
They are faster to install and adjust, and they are reusable. Twine is cheaper. Many gardeners use clips for quick jobs and twine for heavy stems.
Can plant clips damage stems?
Place the clip under a leaf branch so it supports the plant without squeezing the main stem, and move it as the stem thickens.
Can I reuse plant clips?
Yes. Rinse them at the end of the season and store them out of the sun so the plastic lasts longer.
Ready to try it in your garden?
Prices and availability change often, so check the current listing on Amazon.
Heads up: some links on this page are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It costs you nothing extra and helps keep this site running. Details.