Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Tomatoes ( Lycopersicon esculentum )
The very definition of the ideal summer produce, the tomato is botanically a fruit even if it's usu-
ally grown in the vegetable garden. There is no way to duplicate that fresh, home-grown tomato
taste and I think that's why tomatoes are the most commonly grown vegetables of home gardeners.
Tomatoes are grown as annuals in most gardens, because they are so frost-tender; however, they are
actually perennial plants.
Heirloom tomatoes allow you to grow a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. These are several of the varieties
available to the heirloom gardener.
(Photo courtesy of Baker Creek Seeds)
Tomatoes do well with soil that's been amended with plenty of compost and organic matter. Using
high-nitrogen fertilizers can cause excess leafy growth and not as much fruit, so building a balanced
soil is the best tactic. Tomatoes need about 150 frost-free days to set ripe fruit, and most gardeners
will transplant started plants to get as much of a head start as possible.
Tomatoes transplant easily and can actually develop stronger root systems from being transplanted.
Start seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date. Keep the seedlings protected from
chill and when seedlings have two sets of leaves, transplant each into an individual pot, covering
one-third of the stem with soil. New roots will develop along the stem and help strengthen the
plant when you move it out to the garden.
Determinate tomatoes tend to form a more compact bush form and will set fruit earlier. Determi-
nate tomatoes also set most of their fruit all within a short time frame, which makes it easier for
things such as canning and making sauce, but can make a less-flavorful tomato. Many gardeners
pinch off the groups of flowers growing right beside the main stem, called suckers, to encourage
more energy production to the remaining flowers and fruit.
 
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