Tomatoes are supported by strings running between wooden stakes. The lead stake is a strong metal post. Then hardwood stakes are placed between groups of two tomato plants. We use 4 foot stakes for most tomatoes, 5 foot stakes for cherry tomatoes. A string is tied securely to the lead stake, then run to the next stake, looped around and pulled tight, then to the next stake, etc. At the other end of the row, the string is tied securely to the metal post, then run down the other side of the row of plants to the next stake, just as before. That gives us two strings running down the row with the tomato plants in between. This is called the San Diego weave or sometimes the Florida weave. There are variations in which the string is run between the plants also rather than just along the outside of the stakes. In my opinion, more work for negligible advantage.

Many growers use plastic string because it's light and smooth and easy to handle. You can buy a box with a clip that attaches to your belt. We use sisal baling twine. It's biodegradable, so if some gets left in the field or winds up in the compost it's no problem. Baling twine comes in a package of two 4500 foot rolls. A roll fits into a 5 gallon bucket for ease in carrying around, but it weighs about 10-15 lb, so it's not something you can attach to your belt (if you want your pants to stay up). We just carry it to the end of the row stretching the string out, then work it onto the stakes.

The plants can flop around within the string/stake area, but can't fall to the ground. This keeps the fruit off the ground. Air around the plants keeps the leaves and fruit dry, which inhibits fungus problems.