Gardener's tips keep tomato plants sturdy

Dear Heloise: Working in the garden relieves stress. Tomatoes are easy to grow and are delicious. When planting tomato plants, remove the first branches on the bottom of the main stalk. Dig a deep hole and insert the plant. The soil level should be above the area where you removed the branches.
This makes for a sturdy plant. I did have one newly planted tomato plant that was blown over by a strong wind. The main stalk bent and broke open. I took a piece of tape and mended the main stalk. The plant survived. Judy Week, New Braunfels, Texas
Staking tomato plants with wood sticks or wire shaped like cones works wonders to help keep them upright, even during high winds. Since I've not had much luck with growing tomatoes, I checked with some of the worker bees in my office, and they said, "Yes, a little tape will help." Heloise
Dear Heloise: I have three small holes in my patio screen door near the bottom, made by a neighborhood cat. I tried putting clear nail polish to close the holes, but it only ran down the screen.
Suddenly, I had a thought -- eureka! I found three sets of matching buttons large enough to cover the holes. My daughter sat on one side of the screen while I sat on the other, and we sewed the buttons over the holes by passing the needle through the holes from one side to the other.
Saved the price of replacing the screen, with no cost to me, as the buttons came out of my button box, and we now have a conversation piece. Nancy Janes, Moncton, New Brunswick
Dear Heloise: Whenever we go on vacation, I always take along a small, empty suitcase. It is for souvenirs and other purchases. This way, I always have room for them, and all is well. Dorinda in California
Dear Readers: Here are two good hints from Suzanne Walcott, via e-mail:
UI have always had a problem with cleanser, etc., under my sink. If it tips, you get powder on everything, and moisture can get into the holes. I take the plastic covers from potato-chip cans and put them over the tops. I don't know why manufacturers don't make flip-top lids!
UYou know all those mailers you get from department stores with perfume samples in them? Well, I tear off the literature part and then put the scented side on my nighties, half slips, etc. When the strips dry out and have no smell, I replace them.
Loved your hints, Suzanne. We also got a letter from Diana R. of Arizona, who says that she uses the perfume strips in her linen closet to keep towels, sheets, etc., smelling fresh. Heloise
King Features Syndicate