I have got some supports that I use for my peonies as they are so heavy. They're like a circle with crisscross wires which are supported on 3 or 4 detachable legs on which they can be raised or lowered. These are expensive, but last well and do the job really effectively. I also use various devices like sections of that wiry lawn edging to push back overhanging growth or just canes and string - though that doesn't work very well! I've got a bit of spare clematis support mesh that I'm going to play with this year.

Thanks Garden Nerd. I think I'll probably get some of these and perhaps a few other sorts as well. I've never had much success with canes and string, and in a small garden (17' x 17') they're a bit unsightly.

What about just using twiggy prunings a la pea stick? Free, bio degradable and trimmable to any size.

I have tried many types of supports, but for crocosmia would use the y-stakes as they are unobtrusive and do the job brilliantly. I use the round criss-cross table type supports for tall perenials like helenium and syldalcea to grow through and the large semi-circular supports when it's too late and the rain and wind has blown them over!

Thanks for all the advice. I know what you're saying, flora uk, about twiggy prunings but I don't have any bushes to prune.

Sunflower2 - your advice was just what I was looking for. I'll definitely try the y-stakes and perhaps a couple of the criss cross types.