What I’m currently growing: Heirloom Tomatoes
I thought it would be fun to highlight something that I am currently loving in my own garden, which is heirloom tomatoes. There’s nothing better than slicing or biting into a ripe, juicy tomato in summer. The possibilities are endless when it comes to ways that you can use them in your favorite recipes. There’s a lot of information out there on the best-tasting tomatoes and which application each one is for, but I wanted to try some of the most recommended by the tomato guru himself, Craig LeHoullier!
He does an excellent job of breaking down the best times to plant, harvest, and care for your crop. Some favorites that I’m currently growing are Abe Lincoln, Lillian’s Yellow Heirloom, Black Krim, Cherokee Purple, Sungold, and Rosella Purple.
The Abe Lincoln variety boasts thick flesh, a small seed core, and an amazing old-fashioned flavor. An indeterminate vine, it yields fruit of medium to very large sizes.
Lilian’s Yellow, a potato leaf variety, offers rich, complex flavors, quite unusual for yellow-fruited tomato species. Slicing like a charm, it's a standout choice.
The Rosella Purple is a dwarf indeterminate tomato that was bred for the Dwarf Tomato Project. These plants have much to offer: 6-10 oz. deep-purple fruits with exquisite flavor, akin to that of Cherokee Purple. And the best part? They're perfect for container gardening, thanks to their stunted stature.
Each kind has a distinct flavor profile and horticultural focus, yet all hold their own horticultural promise.
*Here is just a small example of the different varieties of heirloom tomatoes.
Making the switch from nursery-purchased transplants to heirloom tomatoes can feel a bit risky but the trade-off is well worth it. Heirloom tomatoes offer things that big box store starters can not compete with. They offer historical significance, uniqueness, variety, and flavor. Heirloom varieties are open-pollinated. This means you can save seeds from heirloom tomatoes, plant them, and expect them to grow into new tomato plants. Given the benefits of heirloom tomatoes, the results can be astounding. By following the steps outlined below, you can start a successful heirloom tomato garden and enjoy all of the flavors that have been passed down for generations.
1. Research: Before you purchase your seeds, research what types of tomatoes will do best in your area. Are you in a shorter-growing climate? Try to choose varieties that are shorter day to help with the risk of the weather turning too cool to ripen. There are numerous resources online to help you with this task.
Once you begin harvesting your new heirloom tomatoes, you can also begin saving seeds for future growing seasons. This is a great way to grow your favorites and experiment with hybrid combinations. Another exciting prospect for seed saving from your heirloom tomatoes is the chance to pass them down to future generations. Truly, an heirloom gift that keeps on giving.
If you are looking for a local West Michigan place to purchase your own plants, check out Plants with Stories. She is a wonderful gardener that offers a wide variety of heirloom plants and has a plethora of knowledge about each plant.
*Heirloom tomato plants from Plants with Stories
Whether you are new to growing tomatoes, or would just like a new challenge for this growing season, I encourage you to give heirloom seeds a try. I would love to hear what your favorite type of tomato to grow is in the comments!
