How to Hold Up Hydroponic Tomatoes

Prepare the area for the hydroponic tomatoes. The plants should be lined up in rows and each plant should have approximately two square feet in which to grow.

Fasten twine or wire horizontally above the tomatoes, using eye hooks on walls or wood frames on either side of the plants. The string or wire must be taut so that it can support the weight of the tomatoes as they grow. A mature tomato plant may weigh up to 30 pounds when fruiting.

Attach the top hook of each plant yo-yo to the twine or wire running above the tomato plants. The plant yo-yos have a U-shape support at the bottom that should be placed around the main stem of the plant under its second set of leaves. The yo-yos will retract as the plant grows and won't pull up on the plant. Each tomato plant will require one yo-yo, which can be purchased at nurseries, garden centers, farm supply stores or online hydroponic supply stores.

Alternatively, use twine alone to hold up the plants. Tie a length of twine to the main stem of each tomato plant. Tie the other end of the twine to the horizontal wire or twine running above the row of tomatoes. As the plants grow, adjust the tension of the twines so they provide continuous support, but not so tight that they cuts into the plants.

Check the twines or wires running above the plants daily. As the plants grow and become heavier, it is important to maintain the tension so the plants do not begin to tip over. If they tip over, their roots may not remain in contact with the nutrient solution in their reservoirs.

Place poles in between the plants to help support the horizontal twine or wire as needed. The poles provide extra support as the fruit begins ripening and the plants become heavier. Poles can be made of bamboo, one-by-two-inch wood or PVC pipe cut to size. The poles should be placed under the support wire or twine wherever it is sagging between the plants.