Could that spiral metal stake propping up your tomatoes turn into a lightning rod? Here's a real-life tale from an experienced gardener that underscores the risks.
True story: A few days ago, my friend's mother headed to her vegetable garden for the daily harvest. Tomatoes and sliced cucumbers destined for a fresh salad with vinaigrette—the perfect summer combo.
As she opened her door, lightning flashed and struck the top of the twisted metal stake supporting her climbing tomatoes. The jolt was so powerful it knocked the sturdy gardener flat. In moments, her tomatoes and cucumbers were left unsupported orphans.
From my own summers camping, we always placed a potato at the top of tent stakes as a lightning deterrent—a simple, effective trick. Reviving it for garden stakes could spark neighbor chatter but safeguard gardeners from such shocking strikes.
Spiral metal stake.
Plastic stake: the safer choice.
