#Growing Tomatoes

[hometoursandotherstuff]

[chokrihizem]

🌻 Savoring the Fruits of Labor 🍅: After months of care and attention, the moment of truth has arrived! 🌟 In this video, we’ll share the joy and satisfaction of harvesting and tasting our homegrown organic Plum Cherry Tomatoes. Follow along as we pick these vibrant fruits, savor the incredible flavor, and reflect on the hard work that made it all possible. Experience the pride of growing your own food, free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, and discover why nothing beats the taste of homegrown tomatoes. Looking forward to the next growing season?

[wildrungarden]

7/10/24 ~ Grafted Brandywine update. Gonna be real upset if a hornworm ends up getting this one 🐛

[gardeningprincess]

Tomato Progress. 🍅 (19 Sep 2024)

Only 2 survived from the initial 4 seeds, but they’re already starting to grow true leaves.

[askwhatsforlunch]

Growing Tip: Marmande Tomatoes

After sucessfully growing Cherry Tomatoes this past couple of years, I've become more ambitious this year and decided to grow bigger tomatoes! Not any bigger tomatoes either, but Marmande Tomatoes, these big, tasty, juicy Beefsteak heritage tomatoes, proudly displayed on many a Provençal market stall!

I sowed my Marmande tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) seedlings, a generous sprinkle over a mixture of good potting soil and a handful of compost in a flat-ish but wide enough pot on the 18th April. I covered the seeds with a light sprinkle of the same mixture, watered, dusted with grated coal to prevent damping off and took the pot upstairs, to the Nursery, just under the window with plenty of light, warmth and regular waterings.

A few days later, they were already sprouting. Quickly, the seedlings started growing proper leaves after their dicot cotyledon. As they grew, I thinned them, pinching off the weaker seedlings so the others had more room to expand.

On the 7th May, I potted two or three seedlings in small pots, filled with garden soil, potting soil and a handful of compost. Watered well and took them back up to the Nursery.

I continued tending to them, much like I did the Garden Cherry Tomatoes, until they started growing proper leaves, and sturdier stalks and reached about 12 centimetres/4.75 inches. I potted these in large pots in the garden filled with a mixture of garden soil, potting soil and a handful of compost a month later.

In late July, the seedlings had grown nicely and started blooming. I used sturdy branches I had cut from the apple and pear trees in the Wintrer to stake them, as they would be heftier once the tomatoes started growing.

And once the flowers were pollinated, it did not take long before tiny tomatoes indeed started growing!

And then, they just kept growing!

And began ripening!

Until I harvested my first Marmande Tomato on! And it was as fragrant and juicy and tasty as a gardener humbly wishes! Simply delicious.

I harvested three more today, and a couple are still ripening on the vine. They might have gotten a bit bigger, but there was plenty of rain by the end of the Summer! And now I know I shall sow them a little earlier next year.

For now, I am thoroughly enjoying these beautiful heritage gems!

[ghettogardener]

I was so worried because my tomatoes were the only seeds not sprouting. THE NEXT DAY they broke the surface and here we are now.

My next step is to research how/when to prune them. I used to just let them grow, but I have been seeing people posting about different ways to make them produce more harvests.

Also....this will be my 3rd attempt to grow Black Krim. I have never been successful, so I'm going to the experts this time.

If anyone has any tips for tomato growing, pls share!

[maydey]

MY BABIES 🥰

ok so, last week I had a sandwich with tomato. I pulled some seeds out of the tomato, and put them in a wet paper towel.

yesterday, I had noticed that they sprouted

There are five seeds there, sadly the fifth hasn’t sprouted, and I think it’s too small to do anything, which is sad but it’s true that sometimes you just gotta let things die

TODAY: I moved them to some dirt

Since I’m growing them ‘out of season’ I’ve decided to NOT put them outside, so that they’ll be able to grow more easily.

my sister says I’ve over-watered them, but I read that tomatoes like water, so I’ve given them quite a bit. I now fear that I’ve over watered them. I hope I didn’t.

the container they are in is quite short but they’re only going to be in there for a AT MOST 3-4 weeks, so I think it’ll be fine.

the table that they are on is also short, short enough for boxers to put their nose on the table to sniff around, but I think they won’t eat my tomatoes. If they do, I would be very very sad.

[backyardgardenguru]

Growing Your Own Legacy: Why Heirloom Seeds Are a Must for Every Gardener

In the world of gardening, there’s something incredibly special about heirloom seeds. These time-honored varieties aren’t just plants—they’re living pieces of history, passed down through generations of gardeners.

If you’ve been looking for a way to make your garden unique, sustainable, and full of flavor, heirloom seeds are the perfect place to start. Let’s dive into why heirloom gardening is more than just a trend and how you can benefit from growing these cherished varieties.

What Exactly Are Heirloom Seeds?

Heirloom seeds come from open-pollinated plants that have been cultivated for decades, often over a century, without genetic modification or hybridization. This means that the plants grown from heirloom seeds are true to type, preserving their original characteristics, from taste to appearance.

These seeds are often treasured within families and communities, with stories and traditions attached to them.

Unlike hybrid or genetically modified seeds, which are bred for traits like uniformity and shelf-life, heirlooms are all about flavor, variety, and sustainability.

Why Grow Heirloom Vegetables?

1. Unrivaled Flavor: One of the biggest draws of heirloom gardening is the flavor.

Because heirloom vegetables haven’t been altered for mass production, they retain their natural, rich flavors.

From juicy tomatoes to crisp beans, heirlooms offer taste profiles you won’t find in typical grocery store produce.

2. Diverse and Unique Varieties: Heirlooms come in an incredible range of colors, shapes, and sizes.

You can grow purple carrots, striped tomatoes, or vibrant yellow cucumbers—bringing both visual and culinary excitement to your kitchen.

3. Sustainability and Seed Saving: Heirloom gardening is a sustainable practice.

Since these plants are open-pollinated, you can save seeds from your best crops and replant them year after year. This not only saves money but also allows you to create a self-sustaining garden.

4. Preserving History and Heritage: Each heirloom seed has a story.

Many varieties have been passed down for generations, making them a living link to our agricultural past.

By growing heirlooms, you help preserve these varieties and ensure they aren’t lost to history.

5. Better Adaptability: Heirloom plants have often been cultivated to thrive in specific regions and climates.

This means they’re more likely to be resilient in local conditions, making your gardening efforts more successful.

Top Heirloom Vegetables to Try in Your Garden

If you’re ready to explore heirloom gardening, here are some standout varieties to consider:

- Black Krim Tomatoes: With a rich, smoky flavor and deep purple hue, Black Krim tomatoes are a favorite for gardeners looking for something truly unique.

- French Breakfast Radishes: These crunchy, mildly peppery radishes are perfect for salads or snacking and grow quickly in most gardens.

- Purple Cherokee Tomatoes: Known for their rich, complex flavor, these tomatoes are ideal for slicing and adding a gourmet touch to any meal.

- Dragon’s Tongue Beans: These stunning beans feature purple streaks and offer a tender, juicy bite.

- Golden Bantam Corn: A sweet, tender heirloom corn variety that’s perfect for grilling or fresh off the cob.

Best Places to Buy Heirloom Seeds

When starting your heirloom garden, it’s essential to source your seeds from reputable suppliers. Here are some of the best places to find high-quality heirloom seeds:

- Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds – Known for a huge selection of rare and unique heirloom varieties from around the world.

- Seed Savers Exchange – A nonprofit organization focused on preserving heirloom varieties through seed sharing and education.

- Renee’s Garden – Specializes in gourmet and heirloom varieties that are perfect for home gardeners.

- High Mowing Organic Seeds – Offers a large selection of organic, non-GMO heirloom seeds that are perfect for sustainable gardening.

How to Care for Your Heirloom Garden

Heirloom gardening requires the same basic care as any other garden, but here are a few tips to ensure your heirloom varieties thrive:

1. Plant in Rich Soil: Heirlooms grow best in nutrient-dense soil. Add compost or organic matter to your garden beds before planting to ensure your vegetables have the nutrients they need.

2. Water Consistently: Make sure your heirloom vegetables get consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Deep watering helps encourage strong root systems.

3. Mulch for Protection: Adding a layer of organic mulch around your plants can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth.

4. Practice Crop Rotation: To keep your soil healthy and reduce the risk of pests, rotate your crops each year. Planting the same variety in the same spot year after year can deplete soil nutrients and encourage disease.

5. Save Your Seeds: One of the most rewarding parts of heirloom gardening is saving seeds from your harvest. Let a few of your best plants mature fully, collect the seeds, and store them in a cool, dry place for next year’s planting.

The Rewards of Heirloom Gardening

Heirloom gardening isn’t just about growing vegetables—it’s about growing tradition, flavor, and sustainability.

Every time you plant an heirloom seed, you’re preserving a piece of history and adding your own chapter to it. These vegetables offer rich flavors, unique varieties, and the satisfaction of knowing you’re playing a role in protecting our agricultural heritage.

So, whether you’re looking to grow the best-tasting tomatoes, save seeds for future seasons, or simply try something new, heirloom seeds are the perfect choice for your garden. Ready to get started? Explore the world of heirloom gardening today, and discover the joy of growing your own piece of history.

[mitchismirage]

Propagating Tomatoes

We have a short growing season here in Northeast Ohio and I am experimenting with ways to lengthen my growing season. Since tomatoes are the most important vegetable/fruit to me I thought I would start with them. I had started my first seeds in the house this past January and the seedlings did well although they grew very slowly. When it came time to transfer them to the greenhouse I noticed…

[bud-and-bloom]

Tomatoes! You'll have heard this before, but you really can grow a tomato from a shop packet. These are the little Piccolo Tomatoes from Aldi. Grab a tomato, cut it a few times, plant that in compost or whatever, and water. These have been in the polygreenhouse and now, 3 weeks to a month later, the tallest are about six inches.

Why not try growing these at home, even as a houseplant?

[cygnetbrown]

Planting the Main Garden

Small apples are on the trees, irises are in full bloom, trees have for the most part leafed out, and most importantly, we have just had blackberry winter. What is blackberry winter? Well, here in the Ozarks, when the blackberries are in bloom, we get our last patch of cold weather and after that, it’s time to plant the main garden plants like tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and pole beans. Here…

[chokrihizem]

As tomatoes are one of the most popular crops to grow in the garden. To boost your yields, you might try companion planting next to your tomato plants. Luckily, there are so many suitable tomato plant companions!

[wildrungarden]

5/4/24 ~ Transplant Day 🥲 Today I transplanted 5 peppies & maters.

Tabasco, Banana Pepper, Tiny Tim, Atomic Grape & Golden Hour

Slowly but surely getting there, folks.

[gardeningprincess]

My tomato progress 🍅🌱 (12 September 2024)

It’s Day 8 of growing these seeds from store brought tomatoes. I germinated them on 04 Sep 2024.

Steps I did:

1. Wipe the surrounding tomato content around the seed with a tissue.

2. Fold a new tissue paper in half and place the seeds inside.

3. Place the tissue in a plastic container.

4. Spray it with water.

5. Keep covered and put in a window sill or place in adequate light for 1 week.

6. Once the root grows and the cotyledon leaves are out of its shell, transplant it to the soil.

[mrvaxxl]

Growing Tomatoes in Sandy Soil: Do Tomatoes Grow in Sandy Soil?

Both heavy clay soil and sandy soil can be challenging for tomato growers, and although both soils can be improved, sandy soil is much easier to work with and can bring results faster.

Tomato plants differ in size and shape, but some indeterminate tomatoes may grow quite large with roots spreading wide and deep - with proper soil, such plants can provide a rich harvest for months.

[thegardenenthusiast]

Basil Gardening 101: A Beginner's Guide to Cultivating Flavorful Herbs

Are you an adult beginner with zero gardening experience but a desire to cultivate your own fresh basil? Well, you're in the right place! Growing basil is not only a rewarding experience, but it also adds a burst of flavor to your culinary adventures. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the basics of basil gardening, step by step, ensuring that even if you've never touched a spade before, you'll soon be able to start harvesting fragrant basil leaves from your own garden.

Understanding Basil: A Brief Introduction

Basil, also known as Ocimum basilicum, is a versatile herb that boasts a distinctive aroma and flavor. Its vibrant green leaves make it a must-have for any kitchen garden. Before diving into the gardening process, let's explore the different types of basil available and their unique characteristics. From sweet basil to Thai basil, each variety offers a distinct taste, perfect for enhancing various dishes.

Setting Up Your Basil Garden: Essential Requirements

1. Location Matters:

Choosing the right location for your basil plants is crucial. Basil thrives in sunlight, so pick a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. Whether you opt for a balcony, patio, or backyard, make sure the chosen area has well-draining soil.

2. Soil Preparation:

Basil prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Enhance your soil with organic matter like compost to ensure optimal growth. Consider using a potting mix if you're planning to grow basil in containers.

3. Selecting Basil Varieties:

As a beginner, start with the classic sweet basil. It's easy to grow and widely used in various cuisines. Once you gain confidence, you can experiment with other varieties like lemon basil, Thai basil, or purple basil.

Planting Basil Seeds or Seedlings

1. Timing is Key:

Basil is sensitive to cold temperatures, so it's essential to plant your seeds or seedlings after the last frost. In most regions, this is during the spring.

2. Seed Planting:

If you're starting from seeds, plant them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Use a seed-starting mix, keep it consistently moist, and watch for the emergence of seedlings.

3. Transplanting Seedlings:

Once the seedlings have a couple of sets of true leaves, transplant them into your prepared garden bed or containers, ensuring proper spacing.

Caring for Your Basil Plants

1. Watering:

Basil prefers consistent moisture but doesn't like to be waterlogged. Water the plants when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

2. Fertilizing:

Feed your basil plants with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth with diminished flavor.

3. Pruning and Harvesting:

Regularly pinch off the tips of your basil plants to encourage bushier growth. Harvest leaves once the plant is mature, typically after 6-8 weeks. Use clean, sharp scissors to cut just above a set of leaves, promoting continued growth.

Troubleshooting Common Basil Issues

Even the most seasoned gardeners face challenges, and as a beginner, you might encounter a few hurdles along the way. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

1. Yellowing Leaves:

This could indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Adjust your watering schedule and ensure proper drainage.

2. Pests:

Keep an eye out for common basil pests like aphids and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to combat these invaders.

3. Diseases:

Prevent fungal diseases by providing adequate spacing between plants, promoting good air circulation.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor

Now that you've successfully navigated the basics of basil gardening, as your plants flourish, experiment with incorporating fresh basil into your favorite recipes. Whether it's a classic Italian pasta dish, a refreshing summer salad, or a homemade pesto sauce, your homegrown basil will elevate your culinary creations to new heights.

Embarking on your gardening journey as an adult beginner may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, cultivating basil can be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. From choosing the perfect spot to harvesting your bountiful crop, this guide has equipped you with the tools to begin your basil garden. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening tools, and let the aromatic journey begin!

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