There are many plants that need to be supported or secured in some way, from climbing plants scrambling up the side of a wall to a fragile delphinium whose flowers are too heavy for its stem. Whatever reason you have for supporting a plant, you must ensure that you are able to secure it firmly without constricting or damaging the stem.

Twine

Most tying jobs in the garden and greenhouse may be carried out using ordinary 3 ply jute twine. This natural string is cheap and is also gentle on plant stems.

Raffia

Raffia is a traditional, natural fibre made from the leaves of palm trees. It is excellent for securing plants, binding grafts and tying canes together to form wigwams. Its soft finish won't damage plant stems.

Plastic Coated Ties

Plastic-coated galvanised steel wire is strong and durable, lasting for several years. It is a good choice for joining canes together to form wigwams or support frames for climbing plants and for holding plants securely in position. Some versions are available with a soft, padded foam coating, which creates a strong tie with a cushioned body soft enough to allow plants to grow without damage.

Plant Rings

Plant rings are ideal for supporting house or garden plants as they grow. Made from wire or plastic, the split ring design simply fits over and around the plant stem and its support.

Nails

Climbing plants may be secured against a wall or fence using lead-headed nails; these have a malleable tail fixed to the head that may be bent over the plant stem to secure it in place.

Vine Eyes

Vine eyes can be used to attach wire to a wall or fence to act as a support for plants; the wire should be threaded through the eyes. Position the eyes at least every 2 m (6 ft) along each row of wire. Flat vine eyes should be used on wall masonry, whilst eyelet vine eyes should be screwed into fences.

Bamboo Canes

Good for supporting single-stemmed plants such as delphiniums. However, after a few seasons use they will eventually split and rot.

Stakes

Single stemmed plants may also be supported using plastic-covered steel rods or PVC stakes, whilst clumps of plants may use metal link or ring stakes as described in supporting perennials. Support shrubs or trees with wooden stakes or a system of guy ropes.

Tree Ties

Trees may be secured to a suitable stake using a durable tie made from rubber, plastic or nylon webbing. Any tie should be easily adjustable so that it does not constrict the growth of the tree. If possible, choose a tie with a spacer between the tree and the stake to prevent the stake from damaging the bark. More information on tree ties may be found in our Trees section within Garden Features.