A few weeks ago I planted 4 variety of tomato seeds in large pots. They have come up beautifully and are 2-3" tall, and I have placed the plants in individual 3" plastic pots, as their roots were beginning to tangle. Soon I would like to plant them in my garden area, and want some advise first. I would like to prevent cutworms from being a problem, and other insects, as my garden is very close to a dense wooded area. I read Howard's advise as to putting a ring of DE around each plant, as a preventative to cutworms, and circling the area with cedar mulch. Any other ideas you would suggest? I'm a tree guy, new to vegable gardening.
Thanks,
Don

I like using crushed pecan shell mulch, which is available at most garden centers. It's very sharp and nothing will cross it. I had a problem with cutworms right after I planted my basil (while the stalks were still pretty thin) and put the shells around it and it worked. DE will wash away or become a paste on the ground if there's any moisture.

Very good idea, Sandi, thanks. I'll let you know how the tomatos do.