How to use plant supports

Step 1

Twiggy stems that have been pruned from shrubs in winter make ideal 'pea sticks' or general plant supports. Push them into the ground around young plants so that they can grow up between the twigs.

Step 2

Tall flower stems of delphiniums or dahlias can be tied individually to bamboo canes pushed into the soil alongside the developing shoots. Tie in with soft string at 10cm - 15cm intervals up the stems.

Step 3

For twining climbers such as cobaea, sweet peas and runner beans, tall tripods made from sticks or bamboo canes provide an ideal framework for their vigorous growth. Where necessary, their shoots can be tied in with soft string.

Step 4

For clump-forming border plants such as lupins, rudbeckias and phlox, tie soft string around a circle of canes pushed in around each plant.