A vertical support (wooden pole, bamboo, or metal rod) inserted into soil to support plants that can't support their own weight.
In plain terms
Tall plants (tomatoes, flowers), weak-stemmed plants, or plants with heavy flower/fruit need stakes for support. Insert stakes at planting time (easier) or early in growth. Tie plants loosely to stakes (allows movement, prevents girdling); use soft ties (cloth, twine). Stakes stabilize plants, prevent breakage, and improve air circulation around dense plants.
Why this matters
Proper staking prevents plant damage, improves aesthetics, and ensures productivity (heavy fruit doesn't break branches or bend plants into poor positions).
In practice
Examples
Tomato staked from planting; grows upright, easier to harvest, improved air circulation.
Tall perennial staked as it grows; prevents flopping in rain or wind.
Heavy-fruiting plant unstaked; branches break under fruit weight; stakes prevent it.
Weak-stemmed annual staked; prevents bending and lodging.
Practical applications
Use stakes appropriate for plant size: bamboo for small plants, wooden posts for large shrubs.
Insert stakes at planting time or early growth (easier on roots).
Tie with soft, wide ties; allow 1-2 inches of slack for movement.
Check ties periodically; remove or loosen as plant stems thicken.
Remove stakes once plant establishes (usually next season).