Classic Tomato Seedlings
Tomato plants are typically compact, bushy plants that can grow to a height of 3-10 feet (0.9-3 meters), depending on the variety. They have a central stem with branches that bear the leaves and fruit. The leaves are medium to large in size and have a serrated edge. The plant produces small yellow flowers that develop into the fruit. The fruit of the tomato plant is the tomato itself. Tomatoes come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours. They can be round, oval, or elongated in shape. The flesh of the tomato is juicy and contains numerous small seeds. Tomatoes are known for their sweet, tangy flavour.
Tips for growing Tomatoes:
1-Provide ample sunlight: Tomatoes need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. Choose a sunny spot in your garden or use containers that can be moved to follow the sun. Transplant your seedlings outdoors once they have developed a few sets of true leaves. Wait to plant until we are receiving 10 degree nights, Tomatoes do not react well to cold weather and cold winds, especially as young plants.
2-Prepare the soil: Tomatoes prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve its fertility and drainage.
3-Plant properly: Dig a hole deep enough to bury the tomato seedling up to its first set of leaves. This encourages the plant to develop a strong root system. Space the plants about 2-3 feet apart to allow for air circulation.
4-Water consistently: Tomatoes need regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases.
5- Support the plants: Most tomato varieties benefit from some form of support, such as stakes, cages, or trellises. This helps keep the plants upright and prevents the fruit from touching the ground, reducing the risk of rot and disease.
6-Mulch the soil: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the plants. This helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
7-Fertilize appropriately: Tomatoes are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer or incorporate slow-release organic fertilizers into the soil before planting. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can promote leafy growth at the expense of fruit production.
8-Prune and pinch: Depending on the variety, you may need to prune or pinch off suckers (side shoots) that develop in the leaf axils. This helps redirect energy to fruit production and improves air circulation.
9-Harvest at the right time: Tomatoes are ready to harvest when they have reached their full color and are firm but slightly soft to the touch. Gently twist or cut the fruit from the vine to avoid damaging the plant.
Our Varieties:
Beefsteak
Beefsteak tomatoes are a popular variety of tomato known for their large size and juicy, meaty texture. They are one of the largest types of tomatoes available, often weighing between 1-2 pounds (0.5-1 kg) each. The shape of beefsteak tomatoes is typically round or slightly flattened, with irregular and uneven edges. They have a smooth, glossy skin that can range in colour from deep red to pink.
The flesh of beefsteak tomatoes is dense and succulent, with a high water content that contributes to their juiciness. They have a rich, sweet flavor that is balanced with a slight acidity, making them a popular choice for slicing and using in sandwiches, burgers, and salads.
Due to their large size and robust flavor, beefsteak tomatoes are often the preferred choice for making tomato sauces, salsas, and canning. They are also delicious when simply sliced and enjoyed fresh with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
When growing beefsteak tomatoes, it's important to provide them with ample support, as their heavy fruit can weigh down the plant. They require full sun and well-draining soil to thrive.
Glamour
Glamour tomatoes are a variety of tomato known for their vibrant and eye-catching appearance. They are a medium-sized tomato, typically weighing around 6-8 ounces (170-230 grams) each. The most distinctive feature of Glamour tomatoes is their striking deep red colour. The skin is smooth and glossy, adding to the tomato's overall visual appeal.
The flesh of Glamour tomatoes is firm and meaty, with a juicy and succulent texture. They have a sweet and slightly tangy flavor that is well-balanced and enjoyable. The taste is often described as rich and full-bodied, making Glamour tomatoes a popular choice for eating fresh in salads or sandwiches.
When growing Glamour tomatoes, it's important to provide them with full sun and well-draining soil. They benefit from regular watering and may require staking or support as the plants can become heavy with fruit.
Chef’s Choice Orange
Chef's Choice Orange tomatoes are a variety of tomato known for their vibrant orange color and delicious flavor. They are medium to large-sized tomatoes, typically weighing around 8-12 ounces (225-340 grams) each. The most notable characteristic of Chef's Choice Orange tomatoes is their bright and bold orange skin. The skin is smooth and glossy, adding to the tomato's visual appeal.
The flesh of Chef's Choice Orange tomatoes is juicy and meaty, with a dense texture. They have a sweet and tangy flavor that is well-balanced. The taste is often described as rich and fruity, with a hint of acidity that adds depth to the flavour profile.
Chef's Choice Orange tomatoes are versatile and can be used in a variety of culinary applications. They are great for slicing and adding to salads or sandwiches, as their firm texture holds up well. They can also be used in salsas, sauces, or roasted to bring out their natural sweetness.
When growing Chef's Choice Orange tomatoes, it's important to provide them with full sun and well-draining soil. They benefit from regular watering and may require staking or support as the plants can become heavy with fruit.
Better Boy
‘Better Boy’ tomatoes are known for their large, round shape and deep red color when ripe. These tomatoes have a rich, classic tomato flavor with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. ‘Better Boy’ tomatoes are versatile and can be used in various dishes such as salads, sandwiches, sauces, and salsas. They are also known for their disease resistance and high productivity, making them a favorite among home gardeners and commercial growers alike.
Early Girl
Early Girl tomatoes are a well-known and popular variety of tomatoes that are prized for their early ripening and prolific fruit production. These tomatoes are medium-sized and have a vibrant red color when ripe. ‘Early Girl’ tomatoes have a juicy and sweet flavor with a slightly tangy undertone, making them ideal for fresh eating, salads, and sandwiches. They are known for their ability to mature quickly, allowing for an early harvest in the growing season. ‘Early Girl’ tomatoes are also relatively compact plants, making them suitable for container gardening or smaller garden spaces.
